Six (6) Reasons Why Workers of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic in Nigeria Are on Strike

INTRO: On April 9, 2025, workers at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic (RUGIPO) in Owo, Ondo State, commenced an indefinite strike over unresolved salary and welfare issues. The strike, led by members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP), is a clear expression of mounting frustration over prolonged neglect by the Ondo State Government. 

The reasons why workers of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic are on strike are:

1. Non-Payment of Six (6) Months’ Salaries: One of the most pressing reasons for the strike is the accumulation of unpaid salaries. The workers revealed they are owed six months’ wages, a situation that has plunged many into financial hardship. During their protest, placards with inscriptions like “We are hungry, pay our six months’ salaries” captured the intensity of their grievance and the dire living conditions many now face.

2. Failure to Implement the National Minimum Wage: Despite a nationwide policy on the new minimum wage, workers at RUGIPO lament that the Ondo State Government has failed to implement it for polytechnic staff. This neglect not only widens the disparity in public sector pay across institutions but also undermines the government’s commitment to workers' welfare and national labor standards.

3. Neglect of Promotion Arrears (2022–2024): According to the union leaders, the institution has failed to pay promotion arrears dating back to 2022. These arrears, covering 2022, 2023, and 2024, represent outstanding entitlements for promoted staff who have continued to work without corresponding financial recognition. This omission erodes morale and signals a lack of appreciation for employee growth and contribution.

4. Inadequate Budget Implementation for 2025: The workers also accused the government of failing to implement the 2025 institutional budget, which they argue is critical for addressing both infrastructural and welfare needs. The unions view this failure as a strategic delay that undermines institutional development and directly affects the financial planning and compensation of staff.

5. Delayed Conversion to a University Without Worker Benefits: While the unions acknowledged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s approval for converting RUGIPO to a university, they also noted that such developmental strides ring hollow when the welfare of existing staff is ignored. The transition, they argue, should not be used to paper over current worker injustices.

6. Threat of Academic Disruption: The strike poses a significant threat to the academic calendar, potentially leading to prolonged shutdowns. Union leaders warned that failure to meet their demands could result in a total collapse of academic and administrative activities at the polytechnic, thereby affecting students and tarnishing the institution’s reputation.