The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics on Monday appealed to the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, to intervene in the lingering dispute between the union and the Federal Government.
The Chairman of the Bida Polytechnic chapter of the union, Mohammed Gbate, made the appeal when he led a delegation to visit the Emir in his palace in Bida.
Gbate said the visit was to seek his intervention in the dispute, which had paralyzed academic activities in the nation’s public polytechnics.
He said, “It is in recognition of your role as a respected elder statesman and a stakeholder in our nation, that ASUP is passionately appealing for your intervention in the impasse.
“We want you to use your good offices to ensure that this strike is resolved now to save the future of polytechnic education in the country.
“We are not so much concerned about the welfare of polytechnics staff, rather it is about addressing the inequality between the polytechnic and the university sector.
“It is about addressing the basic inputs needed to make polytechnic education work.
“This is a country that wants to advance technologically, yet, it is toying with the same sector that will be the brain and driver of that technological development.”
The Etsu Nupe, represented by Mr. Abdullahi Adamu, pledged to assist in seeking a lasting solution to the crisis.
He urged the union to exercise restraint as it explores every legitimate avenue in ending its dispute with the government.
He added, “You have shown maturity in your negotiations with the government; keep up with the patience and be dedicated.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that ASUP began its strike last October 4, to press the government to increase funding of polytechnics, among other demands.
