Entrance gate of Federal Polytechnic Bida
Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic, Bida, has indefinitely suspended the activities of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Bida Chapter, citing heightened tensions and adverse security concerns.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the polytechnic’s Registrar, Mr. Hussaini Enagi, declared, “In view of the rising tension and prevailing negative security report, the council has suspended the activities of ASUP-Bida with immediate effect.”
He urged union members to comply strictly with the directive.
The suspension follows ASUP-Bida’s decision to resume a previously halted strike, demanding payment of six months of an alleged 18-month backlog of Excess Workload Allowances.
The union stated, “In line with the directive of the congress, and in view of management’s continued reluctance to pay, all members are hereby directed to immediately resume the suspended strike action.” The union emphasized full compliance, asserting, “Our struggle is legitimate, anchored on justice, and protected under the relevant labour laws.”
In response, the polytechnic’s Rector, Dr. Baba Haruna, acknowledged the strike notice but cautioned ASUP members to respect the rights of colleagues who may oppose the strike. Similarly, Registrar Enagi noted that the Governing Council was aware of the strike declaration, despite ongoing appeals for ASUP to await a committee’s report on the issue. Enagi stated, “The council views with serious concern the implications of the strike on students, who were already scheduled to commence Second Semester Examinations on September 15.”
The council further appealed to ASUP to reconsider the strike “in the greater interest of the system” and ensure law and order, emphasizing that members choosing to work should face no intimidation. “The council recognizes the rights of the union to declare a strike but urges the union to recognize the rights of members who may not join,” Enagi added.
ASUP’s National President, Shammah Kpanja, condemned the council’s actions, describing the developments as “disturbing.” He expressed solidarity with the Bida chapter, stating, “We note with displeasure the purported suspension of union activities by the Governing Council, as well as the embarrassing pictures and videos of soldiers supervising an activity purporting to mean an examination.” Kpanja vowed that the national leadership would address the council’s and management’s actions with relevant authorities.
Established in 1977, Federal Polytechnic, Bida, began its first academic session in April 1978 with 211 students, 11 senior staff, and 33 junior staff. Located in Bida, Niger State, the institution remains a key federal tertiary institution.
