SSANIP threatens strike over alleged victimization, unpaid entitlements

The Zaria chapter of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has issued a stern warning to the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), Dr Auwal Mustapha Imam, threatening to resume a previously suspended strike if pressing staff welfare issues are not urgently addressed.

In a resolution jointly signed by the chapter chairman, Adamu Ibrahim, and secretary, Bitrus Zaman, the union accused Dr Imam of administrative high-handedness and victimisation of staff, alleging a pattern of unfair treatment that has eroded industrial harmony within the institute.

The resolution, specifically demanded the reversal of the recent demotion of Mr Adamu Ibrahim, who served as NILEST’s deputy director of finance and accounts. The union described the action as “a targeted act of victimisation” and a reflection of deeper grievances over staff welfare and management style.

The union also condemned recent staff transfers carried out without proper consultation, saying the changes have disrupted the work environment and undermined industrial peace. SSANIP insisted that the transfers should be reversed in the interest of transparency and due process.

Equally concerning, according to the union, is the non-payment of promotion arrears and salaries owed to staff at the institute’s extension centres since January 2022. The union called on the management to expedite action on these claims, particularly repatriation allowances, which it described as “staff entitlements that should not be delayed.”

“The DG must expedite action on these accrued claims,” the resolution stated. “Repatriation allowances are a staff entitlement and should not be delayed.”

The union further accused the DG of unilaterally making decisions on staff matters without consultation or engagement with the union, a move it said breaches established industrial relations practices.

Additionally, SSANIP, demanded the immediate payment of non-accident bonuses owed to drivers, emphasising that the bonuses form part of their contractual rights.

The union warned that failure to address these demands promptly could lead to the resumption of its suspended industrial action, potentially disrupting activities at the research-focused institute.

SSANIP threatens strike over alleged victimization, unpaid entitlements