THE Nigeria Union of Teachers in Edo State on Wednesday dared the state government and directed primary school teachers in public schools to shun the February 1, 2021, resumption date ordered by the state government.
Despite the appeal by the Perm. Secretary, Establishment, Derby Enakhimion and the Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa had to the state NUT to suspend the teachers’ strike, the union maintained that there was no going back on its industrial action until their demands were met.
A statement by the state NUT Chairman, Pius Okhueleigbe; and the Assistant Secretary General of the union, Moni Itua, indicated that the state government had not demonstrated a reasonable commitment towards resolving the issues presented to it.
“The decision to continue with the strike was because the union was convinced that it had earlier allowed the state government eight weeks to have its demands resolved before the unhindered commencement of the strike.
“The union is no longer disposed to request for additional days from Edo State Government. The union unanimously agreed that dialogue/negotiation between Edo State Government and the union should continue while the strike persists.”
The union had on January 12, 2021 directed all primary school teachers and school heads to embark on an indefinite strike with effect from January 18, 2021.
The demands of the union include payment of the 2013 to 2015 promotion arrears of teachers in Oredo, Orhionmwon, and Uhunmwode local government areas of the State.