Bayelsa teachers threaten indefinite strike over N30,000 minimum wage

• The grievances highlighted by the NUT encompass the failure of both the state and local governments to implement the N30,000 minimum wage and execute promotions for primary school teachers in the state
  

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The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) is poised to launch an indefinite strike in public primary and secondary schools across Bayelsa due to concerns regarding the N30,000 minimum wage and outstanding promotion payments.

As reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, this decision was reached during an executive meeting held on October 12, subsequent to an initial three-day warning strike that failed to prompt action from the Bayelsa Government.

Teachers had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the government and local councils to address the challenges faced by educators statewide, warning of potential industrial action if their demands weren’t met.

The grievances highlighted by the NUT encompass the failure of both the state and local governments to implement the N30,000 minimum wage and execute promotions for primary school teachers in the state. Consequently, teachers have endured significant hardships due to the non-payment of promotion arrears.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s persistent neglect of teachers’ issues, despite engaging in futile discussions, the NUT stressed that the 14-day ultimatum began on October 13. Failure to resolve the concerns within this timeframe will compel teachers across the state to initiate the strike.

The strike notice received approval from the eight constituent local government branches of NUT in Bayelsa. The communique after the meeting was signed by the chairmen of the NUT’s local government branches.

Meanwhile, when contacted, Dr. Gentle Emelah, Bayelsa Commissioner for Education, refrained from providing comments, failing to respond to telephone calls and messages requesting clarification from the government.

Furthermore, the News Agency of Nigeria reported that schools in Bayelsa had closed on August 29 due to anticipated flooding and are scheduled to reopen on November 13.