By Okafor Joseph Afam
December 3, 2024

With just three days remaining to complete first-term examinations in primary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), pupils were sent home on Monday as teachers went on strike. The industrial action stems from the failure of the six area councils in the FCT to implement the N70,000 minimum wage, despite multiple appeals from teachers.

The strike, which has disrupted academic activities, left pupils stranded and schools in disarray. Monday’s abrupt dispersal of pupils follows a series of disruptions in the school calendar. The most recent strike, which began on September 18 and lasted until October 7, saw students at home for nearly three weeks, causing significant setbacks in their academic progress.

Parents and guardians expressed frustration at the turn of events, noting how the repeated strikes have negatively impacted their children’s education. One parent lamented, “Our children are the ones suffering. How can they learn properly with constant interruptions like this?”

NUT Chairman Speaks Out

Reacting to the development, Ameh Baba, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in the Kubwa chapter, said the strike was a last resort. He accused the area council chairmen of neglecting their obligations to teachers, including unpaid arrears and allowances.

“We have been patient long enough. The ultimatum given by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for all states to comply with the N70,000 minimum wage by December 1 has expired. We are left with no choice but to act,” Baba stated.

According to Baba, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had approved the new minimum wage, with plans to implement it starting with November’s salary. However, teachers under the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in the FCT are yet to receive the promised payment.

“The councils owe us not just the N70,000 minimum wage but also the N40,000 peculiar allowance and N35,000 wage award for over a year. We can no longer work under these conditions,” he added.

Disruptions Across Schools

The strike has thrown the FCT’s education system into further turmoil. Pupils who had prepared to write their examinations this week were left disappointed as teachers turned them away at the gates. In some schools, classes were locked, and notices were posted to inform parents of the strike action.

Meanwhile, education stakeholders in the FCT have called on the government to resolve the crisis promptly. A representative from the FCT Parent-Teacher Association urged the Minister and area council authorities to ensure the backlog of allowances and wages is cleared.

“Our children’s future is at stake,” the representative said. “This is not just about the teachers; it’s about the survival of the education system in the FCT.”

As the strike continues, there is growing concern over its long-term impact on the academic calendar. Stakeholders are urging both parties to reach an agreement to prevent further disruptions in the education sector.

For now, pupils in the FCT remain at home, awaiting a resolution to the ongoing crisis.