The primary reasons behind their impending strike are related to the overdue implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage and unresolved promotion arrears.
Teachers expressed their deep disappointment at the fact that despite Bayelsa's position among the top four states with the highest earnings from the federation account, the welfare of educators has been severely overlooked. Schools in Bayelsa had initially closed on August 29 due to the anticipated flood situation, with a scheduled reopening on November 13.
The NUT took this decision during an executive meeting on Wednesday, October 12, after a three-day warning strike had failed to motivate the Bayelsa government into taking action.
To address these pressing issues, the teachers have issued a 14-day ultimatum to both the state government and local government councils in Bayelsa.
The critical concerns emphasized by the NUT include the failure of both state and local governments to implement the N30,000 minimum wage and address promotion-related matters for primary school teachers in the state.
The union pointed out that the non-payment of promotion arrears has subjected teachers to immense hardships, affecting both primary and secondary school teachers across the state.
The NUT expressed its dissatisfaction with the government's persistent neglect of the challenges faced by teachers, despite various engagements in discussions. The teachers perceive the government's attitude as causing humiliation and frustration among primary and secondary school educators in the state.
The 14-day ultimatum takes effect from October 13, and failure to address these concerns within the stipulated timeframe may result in a strike by teachers in the state. The strike notice has received the endorsement of the NUT's constituent branches in eight Local Government Areas in Bayelsa.
As of now, Dr. Gentle Emelah, Bayelsa's Commissioner, has declined to comment or provide a response to the situation despite several attempts to contact him through telephone calls and text messages.
