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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Workers in Oyo State’s polytechnics and colleges of education have threatened to embark on an indefinite strike starting Thursday, 6 February 2025, due to delays in implementing the approved minimum wage.
In a statement signed by Dr Kola Lawal, Chairman of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Tertiary Institutions in Oyo State, the workers expressed frustration over the failure of their institutions’ management to implement the wage increase, despite Governor Seyi Makinde’s approval and increased subvention to educational institutions.
“It is on record that Governor Makinde, in his commitment to workers’ welfare, approved the new minimum wage and provided additional funding for institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, to facilitate its implementation,” the statement read.
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While Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) and Emmanuel Alayande University of Education have implemented the new wage structure, workers in polytechnics and colleges of education have yet to benefit, despite funds being allocated for this purpose.
The delay, according to JAC, has exacerbated financial difficulties for workers, particularly amid rising inflation and economic challenges.
The workers have now issued a firm ultimatum, demanding the full implementation of the minimum wage for January 2025 and ensuring future salaries reflect the approved wage structure.
“If the balance of the minimum wage is not paid by Wednesday, 5 February 2025, workers in polytechnics and colleges of education will withdraw their services indefinitely from Thursday, 6 February,” the statement warned.
