By Esther Ibe
The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Imo State University, Owerri Branch (ASUU-IMSU), has embarked on an indefinite strike due to unresolved welfare issues affecting academic staff.
The strike began late Friday evening, as announced in a statement by Comrade Odinakachukwu Ejiogu, Chairperson, and Comrade Lazarus Chikwendu, Secretary of ASUU-IMSU.
In the statement, the union outlined several longstanding grievances, including the lack of financial benefits for promotions since 2016, salary disparities compared to other tertiary institutions, delays in staff assessments and promotions, selective salary payments, and non-payment of earned academic allowances since 2009. Other concerns include the non-remittance of union dues and pension deductions, the absence of annual salary increments, the inclusion of the university in the Treasury Single Account, insufficient funding, and erosion of university autonomy.
The union noted that despite numerous attempts to resolve these issues through correspondence, meetings, and public rallies, there has been no substantial response from the university administration or governing bodies. Members have shown patience, but deteriorating conditions have led to the decision to strike. Following a congress on July 18, 2024, a 21-day notice was issued for resolution, and with no action taken, the union felt compelled to take this step to advocate for better treatment and working conditions.