The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) chapter at Imo State University (IMSU) has officially embarked on an indefinite strike. The strike, which began on Friday, 20th September, comes after numerous unresolved issues between the staff and the university’s administration. This action, according to the union leaders, is a result of years of unmet demands and neglect from the university management.
Unresolved Issues Push IMSU ASUU to Strike
ASUU-IMSU leaders, Comrade Odinakachukwu Ejiogu and Comrade Lazarus Chikwendu, announced the strike due to unresolved grievances. The union cited long-standing issues, including the absence of financial benefits for staff promotions since 2016. They also highlighted salary disparities between IMSU staff and those in other state universities. Delays in staff evaluations and promotions further contributed to the decision to strike. These persistent problems have driven the union to take decisive action after years of inaction by the administration. The union also raised concerns about selective salary payments and unpaid salary arrears.
IMSU Academic Allowances and Pension Deductions Among Key Concerns
Among the union’s pressing demands is the payment of academic allowances that have been outstanding since 2009. Additionally, ASUU-IMSU highlighted the university’s failure to remit union dues for the years 2020-2021 and unpaid pension deductions since May 2016. These financial discrepancies, along with the non-payment of annual salary increments, have created widespread dissatisfaction among the academic staff at the university.
Union Advocates for Treasury Single Account and University Autonomy
ASUU-IMSU also called for better funding for the university, urging the Imo State Government to bring IMSU under the Treasury Single Account (TSA) system. The union stressed the importance of preserving the university’s autonomy, which they believe is being eroded by external influences. They also voiced concerns over the declining quality of education at IMSU due to these administrative and financial challenges.
Efforts to Resolve the Crisis Ignored by Management
According to ASUU-IMSU, various attempts to engage with the university’s administration over the past few years, through letters, rallies, and meetings, have yielded no meaningful results. The union issued a 21-day ultimatum on 18th July 2024, but the lack of response from the university management left them with no choice but to declare an indefinite strike. The union leaders expressed their frustration over the administration’s inaction in addressing their concerns.
Public Support Requested by Union Leaders
Comrade Ejiogu, in his statement, urged the public to understand the reasons behind the strike, emphasising that the academic staff are fighting for improved working conditions and the future of the university. The union appealed to students, parents, and the general public to support their cause, as they believe that resolving these issues is critical to ensuring a better educational environment at IMSU.
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