Abia Teachers Cry Out Over Welfare Challenges, Demand Urgent Intervention Despite Praising Governor Otti’s Support

Umuahia, March 4, 2025 – The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Abia State Chapter, has expressed deep frustration over the continued neglect of teachers’ welfare and service conditions by some government functionaries, despite lauding the commendable efforts of Governor Alex Chioma Otti (OFR) in transforming the education sector.

In a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency enlarged meeting held at the Old Teachers’ Secretariat, Umuahia, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, NUT representatives at national, state, and branch levels gathered to deliberate on the worsening challenges facing teachers across the state.

While the union hailed Governor Otti as a “teacher-friendly leader” who has consistently paid salaries on or before the 28th of each month, approved the N70,000 minimum wage, extended retirement age by five years, and promoted continuous teacher training, they lamented that several of his policies are being undermined by individuals within the system.

Key Resolutions and Demands from the Meeting Include:

1. Immediate Implementation of Teachers' Salary Structure (TSS):

The union called for the reinstatement and monthly payment of the 27.5% TSS allowance for primary school teachers, which was reportedly halted by LGEA and ASUBEB staff who are not eligible for the benefit.

2. Uniform Salary Payments Across LGAs:

Teachers condemned the disparity in salaries paid to workers on the same grade level in different LGAs, calling for immediate harmonization to ensure fairness and boost morale.

3. Delayed Promotion Implementation:

The union demanded the full execution of all pending promotions under General 35, warning that continued delays are demotivating.

4. Salary Arrears for Junior and Primary Teachers:

While senior secondary teachers have begun receiving backlog payments, their junior and primary counterparts have been left out. The union blamed the Accountant General’s office for failing to act on the Governor’s directive and demanded immediate compliance.

5. Restoration of Transport Allowance:

Teachers expressed shock over the removal of transport allowance in February salaries and demanded that it be restored and arrears paid along with March salaries.

6. End to Endless Verifications:

The forum condemned the frequency of verification exercises, which have led to salary delays, unnecessary stress, and security risks. They urged the use of previous verification results to save time and reduce disruption to academic activities.

7. Recall of Unduly Retired Teachers:

Some teachers were reportedly forced into retirement despite the government’s approval of age/service elongation. The union demanded their immediate reinstatement and payment of withheld benefits.

8. Correction of Wrong Union Deductions:

NUT discovered that dues from some members are being wrongly remitted to other unions such as NASU. They called for urgent reversal and refund, and requested disciplinary action against those responsible.

9. Uncoordinated Teacher Transfers:

The union condemned ASUBEB’s transfer of teachers without proper consultation with LGEAs, leading to hardship. They advised that all future transfers be done in collaboration with LGEAs who are familiar with local terrains.

10. Non-Compliance with Running Cost Payments:

Despite Governor Otti’s directive for monthly running costs to be paid to school heads, some government officials have failed to implement it. The union demanded the payment of all arrears from October 2024 till date.

11. Call for Calm:

Junior secondary school teachers were urged to remain patient, as the union believes the Governor will act promptly once the issues are brought to his attention.

The communiqué, signed by Comrade Mrs. Nnenna Okonkwo (Secretary) and Comrade Friday C. Madu (State Chairman), emphasized the union’s commitment to peaceful resolution through dialogue, while urging the Governor to step in and address the lingering challenges affecting the education sector.