The Student Union Government (SUG) of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ondo State Government to resolve the ongoing strike action disrupting academic activities at the institution.
In a memorandum jointly signed by the SUG President, Onile Olaniyi Mayowa, and the General Secretary, Fabiyi Emmanuel, the student body expressed deep concern and dissatisfaction over the prolonged industrial action which has left students stranded and academic activities suspended.
The union noted that the strike has significantly affected the academic progress and future of students, stressing that the situation has lingered for too long without any clear indication of when normal academic activities would resume.
According to the statement, the SUG leadership had consistently demonstrated maturity and responsibility in handling the situation, emphasizing its commitment to peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement as a means of resolving the crisis.
The student leaders revealed that in line with this approach, they held a round-table meeting on Monday with the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Union Matters, where assurances were given that the strike would be called off on or before Wednesday.
However, the SUG lamented that as of the time of issuing the memorandum, there had been no visible sign of resumption of academic activities nor any official communication indicating concrete steps toward resolving the impasse.
The union further alleged that the development suggests that government officials involved may not be treating the matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves, warning that the academic future of students should not continue to suffer because of delays and unfulfilled assurances.
While reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, the SUG reminded the government that the struggle for students’ welfare and rights is guided by the principles of the “3Cs” — Consultation, Consolidation, and Confrontation.
The union stated that having exhausted consultation and consolidation efforts in good faith, it was left with no option but to consider the next phase if immediate action is not taken.
It therefore issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ondo State Government to ensure that the ongoing strike is called off and academic activities resume within the stipulated timeframe.
The SUG warned that failure by the government to meet the demand would compel the union to mobilize students for lawful and coordinated actions aimed at pressing home their demands, urging the authorities to act swiftly in the interest of peace, stability, and the academic progress of students.
The memorandum concluded with the union’s traditional solidarity slogan, “Aluta Continua, Victoria Ascerta,” reaffirming the determination of the student body to pursue the restoration of academic activities at the institution.
Post a Comment