CurrentReport Blog The strike by the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osura, took a new twist on Thursday as union members blocked all entry points to the institution in a protest demanding the implementation of a 65-year retirement age.
Students and lecturers attempting to attend morning classes were caught off-guard, as the barricades completely blocked access to the campus. The union members displayed a banner at the entrance, urging the state government to intervene and enforce the 65-year retirement policy.
Reports indicate that the situation was brought under temporary control following the intervention of the Polytechnic’s Chief Security Officer, who instructed that the gates be reopened. However, the underlying issues remain unresolved as the strike enters its second week.
A lecturer, speaking anonymously, criticized the union’s tactics, suggesting that the demand for a 65-year retirement age stems from resentment toward academic staff, who already enjoy that privilege.
“In the university system, professors retire at 70 years, and other academic staff at 65, allowing them time for research and writing. If non-academic staff want the same, they should change their status and contribute to knowledge like academics do,” the lecturer stated.
