Ondo Tertiary Institutions Threaten Strike Over Minimum Wage Delay

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of staff unions in Ondo State-owned tertiary institutions has issued a 14-day ultimatum to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, demanding the implementation of the national minimum wage for workers in the state’s higher institutions. The group warned that failure to comply within the stipulated time could lead to a statewide industrial action, bringing academic activities to a halt.

The institutions likely to be affected by the proposed action include Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo.

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Staff Unions Demand Action on Wage Exclusion

The demand was made in a joint letter addressed to Governor Aiyedatiwa. It was signed by representatives of major unions in the affected institutions: the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP).

According to the unions, workers in the state’s tertiary institutions have been unfairly excluded from the wage structure already enjoyed by core civil servants in the state. This exclusion, they said, has subjected their members to financial hardship and is a clear violation of the principle of equity.

“This fight is not just about wages,” the unions stated. “It is about justice, equity, and the dignity of labour.”

 Ultimatum Covers Wage Arrears and Pension Issues

The JAC’s demands are not limited to the implementation of the national minimum wage. The letter also raised long-standing grievances, including:

• Incomplete payment of arrears from the 2019 minimum wage.
• Unpaid wage award payments.
• Withheld subventions dating back to January 2017.
• Non-implementation of the 2025 budgetary allocations for institutions.
• Unpaid pensions and gratuities for retired staff.

The unions disclosed that previous engagements with government representatives and even a communiqué issued in February 2025 had yielded no concrete results. As a result, they felt compelled to escalate their demands to the governor’s office.

They argued that the situation reflects a neglect of tertiary education and the welfare of those who serve in the sector.

Institutions Brace for Possible Shutdown

If the government fails to act within the 14-day window, the unions warn that they will have no choice but to down tools, leading to a shutdown of operations in the affected institutions. This would severely impact academic calendars, examination schedules, and other key administrative functions.

The looming strike could see thousands of students stranded, with academic progress stalled. There is already growing concern among parents, students, and academic observers over the possible repercussions.

Background on the Wage Dispute

The national minimum wage, which took effect in 2019, was designed to ensure that workers across all sectors, including education, receive a living wage. However, implementation has been inconsistent across states, with many sub-national governments citing limited resources or bureaucratic bottlenecks as reasons for the delay.

In Ondo State, while core civil servants reportedly began receiving the new wage structure, workers in tertiary institutions were left out. The unions claim this disparity is unconstitutional and discriminatory.

A union official noted, “We have waited patiently, held several meetings, and demonstrated goodwill. But our patience has worn thin. We deserve the same treatment as other public servants.”

Call for Dialogue and Resolution

As tensions rise, labour leaders and civil society groups have urged the state government to open dialogue with the JAC to avoid escalation. Many see this as a test of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to workers’ welfare and educational development in the state.

While the governor has yet to issue an official response, observers say his handling of the matter could shape public perception of his leadership, particularly among the youth and education sector stakeholders.

Time is ticking, and with only days remaining in the ultimatum, pressure continues to mount on the government to take decisive action that reflects fairness and accountability.

 A Tipping Point for Tertiary Workers

The current standoff between Ondo State’s tertiary institution workers and the state government underscores a broader crisis in education funding and labour relations in Nigeria. The JAC’s ultimatum is not just a protest over delayed wages—it’s a demand for recognition, respect, and fairness.

As the clock winds down on the 14-day notice, all eyes are on Governor Aiyedatiwa. Will he heed the call for justice and avert a full-blown crisis, or will the state’s tertiary institutions face yet another disruption?