The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Federal Polytechnic Ngodo-Isuochi branch, Abia State, has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the institution’s management for allegedly failing to execute staff welfare demands and violating legislative responsibilities.
The ultimatum was contained in a letter addressed to the rector, Dr. Pdi Ndubuisi, dated May 26, 2026, and signed by the ASUP chairman of the institution, Mr. Ador Osundu, and the secretary, Mr. Onyeneke Arrhenius.
In the letter sighted on Monday, the union’s executive stated that repeated efforts through dialogue, congresses, and official correspondence to draw the attention of the institution’s management had failed to yield action, creating “industrial tension, eroding trust, and threatening the institution’s stability.”
ASUP said that failing to resolve the issues within 21 days will force it to use “all lawful trade union mechanisms, including industrial action.”
The body further stated that the ultimatum, which was voted on at the union’s congress on May 22, 2026, is effective as of the date the letter was received (May 26).
ASUP identified six unsolved problems, including violations of Nigerian labor, health, and anti-corruption laws.
The union accused management of failing to invite National Housing Fund (NHF) representatives for employee sensitization and enrollment, in contravention of the National Housing Fund Act, which requires employer cooperation in deductions and payments.
Management was also chastised for failing to facilitate National Health Insurance (NHIA) enrollment for employees, depriving them access to inexpensive healthcare as provided by the National Health Insurance Authority Act of 2022 and the National Health Act of 2014.
ASUP also expressed concerns over the alleged diversion of monies allowed for a borehole project into a personal account.
“We call for an independent audit of the project fund; failure to do that will force us to petition the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,” the lecturers stated.
The union complained about a continuous shortage of necessary pharmaceuticals and medical supplies at the health center, describing it as a breach of the institution’s duty of care. It necessitated urgent replenishment and the hiring of qualified medical workers.
The union expressed dissatisfaction with management’s refusal to remit the deducted check-off dues from February 2026 to the present, citing a violation of the Trade Unions Act and Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution.
“The union remains open to negotiation until the ultimatum expires, should management invite its leadership for talks.
“As we await management’s action, ASUP reaffirms its commitment to industrial peace, staff welfare, and institutional progress,” the letter stated.
When approached, the polytechnic’s public relations officer, Dr. Mrs. Anukaenyi Blessing, stated that she is unable to comment on the petition because she is not a member of the institution’s management board.
