By Muhammad Sani Muazu,
Staff members of Bauchi State-owned tertiary institutions have declared an indefinite strike following an emergency congress meeting of the Joint Action Committee (JAC). The meeting, came after the expiration of a two-week warning strike that lasted from December 16 to December 30, 2024. The strike involved both academic and non-academic staff unions from six institutions: Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi; Adamu Tafawa Balewa College of Education, Kangere; A.D. Rufai College of Education, Legal and General Studies, Misau; Aminu Saleh College of Education, Azare; Bauchi State College of Agriculture, Bauchi; and Bill and Melinda Gates College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ningi.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, JAC expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of their demands.
The union criticized the government for failing to implement the new CONPCASS and CONTEDISS salary tables, which were key components of their demands. They also accused government representatives of lacking sincerity and commitment to addressing the issues raised, instead employing delay tactics that undermine the efforts of Governor Bala Mohammed to improve the state’s tertiary education sector. Furthermore, JAC alleged that threats and intimidation had been directed toward their leadership and members across the institutions.
As a result of these grievances, the congress resolved to embark on a “total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike action” starting Thursday, January 2, 2025. This decision marks an escalation in the industrial action, which is expected to disrupt academic and administrative activities across all affected institutions.
In the communiqué, signed by JAC State Chairman, Comrade Engr. Abubakar Ahmed, and Secretary, Comrade Bashir Dahiru, the union apologized to students, parents, and the general public for the inconveniences caused by the strike. They assured the public of their readiness to return to work once their demands are fully met.