Examiners contracted by NECO to grade the 2024 exams have threatened a nationwide protest over unpaid entitlements. Although they completed their duties over three months ago, most examiners have not received their wages. The results were released over a month ago, but payment delays persist. Examiners are demanding immediate payment for their work. This has led to mounting frustrations, with examiners now mobilising across the country for a coordinated demonstration.
Aggrieved Examiners Take Action
A letter circulated to NECO examiners in Plateau State, written by Kano examiners, confirmed the development. The November 8, 2024, letter expressed examiners’ anger over unpaid wages despite completing their marking duties. It stated that most examiners remain uncompensated, despite the results being released. The letter, addressed to NECO’s Chief Registrar, stressed examiners’ vital role in conducting the exams and their unmet payment.
Call for Urgent Resolution
The examiners have now issued a two-week ultimatum for NECO to resolve the matter. Examiners have vowed to protest nationwide if payments are not made within the given period. The letter warned of legal action if NECO fails to address the issue. Examiners cited negligence and disregard for workers’ rights as reasons for pursuing further action.
Frustration Among Examiners
Some examiners in Jos who spoke to our correspondent expressed their readiness to join the protest if no action is taken to address their concerns. The ongoing payment delay has left many examiners feeling undervalued and ignored, especially considering the current economic challenges they face. The movement to protest has been gaining momentum as more examiners join the call for justice and fair compensation.
NECO’s Silence on the Issue
Attempts to reach NECO’s Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Dantani Wushishi, for comments on the matter were unsuccessful. His phone was switched off when contacted by our correspondent. As the deadline for resolving the payment issue approaches, the pressure on NECO to address the grievances of its examiners intensifies.
The Growing Call for Action
With tensions escalating, the threat of a nationwide protest looms large. Examiners are united in their demand for fair payment, and the wider public is beginning to take notice. The outcome of this dispute could have broader implications for the future management of NECO examinations, as well as for the treatment of workers in Nigeria’s public sector.
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