The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has summoned all FCT area council chairmen and the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT wing, for an emergency meeting to address the ongoing strike by primary school teachers.
The strike, which has disrupted learning across the territory, stems from longstanding issues related to unpaid salaries, allowances, and other welfare entitlements. Wike made the announcement on Thursday while inspecting projects slated for commissioning to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary in office.
Reacting to the teachers’ protest held on Wednesday, Wike described the situation as “very unfortunate,” expressing concern over what he termed a lack of conscience by the area council chairmen.
“These are teachers who take care of our children, and you are happy that you are not paying them their salaries,” the minister said. “In fact, I got the report yesterday and have summoned all of them for a meeting.”
Wike accused the area councils of receiving approved funds meant for teachers’ entitlements but failing to disburse them appropriately. He warned that more stringent measures would be taken if necessary. “By the time I apply the big stick, people will say all kinds of things,” he added.
The minister clarified that primary education falls under the jurisdiction of the area councils, not the FCT Administration, but assured the teachers that he was committed to resolving the matter. He appealed for patience from the NUT while investigations and resolutions are underway.
In a related development, NUT FCT Chairman, Abdullahi Shafa, confirmed Wike’s involvement and efforts to resolve the crisis. Shafa acknowledged the release of N4.1 billion by the minister to settle outstanding payments but alleged that the funds were misappropriated by the council chairmen.
He called on the National Assembly and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the alleged diversion and hold the culprits accountable.
The teachers have been on strike to demand payment of the national minimum wage, a 40% peculiar allowance, and other pending salary increases including the 25% and 35% increments, as well as the N35,000 wage award. Continue…. Your… Reading
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