ASUU, Edo government trade words over N1b salary arrears, others

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Edo State-owned Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma Chapter, yesterday, insisted that the state government was indebted to workers of the institution, alleging over more than N1 billion in non-payment of salaries, check-off dues and other sundry deductions from salaries of members of staff since March 2020.

The union, therefore, urged urgent payment of the salaries of workers up to date and arrears of check-off dues and other deductions to avoid possible mass action or protest.

In a statement signed by Chairman, ASUU, Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Chapter, Dr. Monday Igbafen, and made available to newsmen in Benin City, the union accused the university administration of being economical with the truth about the true situation as it relates to the university’s indebtedness to workers.

Igbafen, who expressed concern over members’ unpaid salaries, said that for three months running, the university had defaulted in paying any salary, even as it has been unable to pay its workforce the expected full salaries for eight months running, having defaulted in the payment of check-off dues, voluntary savings and other deductions since March 2020.

It also implored the Visitor to the university to decisively intervene in the present harrowing plight of workers of the institution.
BUT reacting, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said the government was not owing anyone salaries and emoluments, noting that the state government had been up to date with its obligations to all cadre of workers or public officers.

He said: “The state government has never reneged on its obligations to pay workers and other cadre of members of staff their due wages and salaries, debunking allegations that it owes some public officials.”

However, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Edward Airvba, declined comment on the issue.