The Non-Academic Staff Union at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osura, in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, intensified their strike by blocking the institution’s gates, demanding a 65-year retirement age implementation. This action disrupted students and lecturers’ access to the campus. The Chief Security Officer intervened to restore order and open the gates.
A lecturer, speaking anonymously, suggested that jealousy towards academic staff, who enjoy a 65-year retirement age, is fueling the NASU strike. The lecturer explained the benefits of the extended retirement age for academic staff, emphasizing the importance of research and knowledge contribution before retirement.
In response, the Polytechnic’s Rector, Dr. Moses Umobong, confirmed the attempted gate closure by the non-academic staff but stated he prevented it by keeping the gates open. The situation highlights the ongoing dispute over retirement age policies at the institution.