ASABA — Ad-hoc staff of the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, have raised alarm over what they described as inhumane treatment by the school’s management, appealing to the state government for urgent intervention.
In a statement signed by Engr Kenneth Ekene Nzemeke, a concerned indigene and advocate for academic excellence, the workers accused the management of owing them three months’ salaries — June, July, and August — despite their critical role in keeping the institution running.
The ad-hoc staff, both academic and non-academic, said the continuous delay in payments had subjected them to unbearable hardship. With a take-home pay of about ₦48,000 after tax, they argued that survival had become almost impossible under the current arrangement.
“How can one expect quality service delivery when staff are forced to wait three to four months before being paid? How can an academic environment thrive when those who sustain it are demoralised and financially incapacitated?” the statement read.
The group also warned that the situation was already fueling unethical practices on campus, as some staff resort to desperate measures just to survive. They blamed the decay on failed leadership and accused management of irresponsibility for hiring more staff despite struggling to pay those already employed.
“No society that desires academic excellence and development can tolerate this level of neglect. This infliction must stop. The management cannot continue to expand staff numbers when they clearly lack the financial capacity to meet basic obligations,” it added.
Engr. Ken called on the Delta State Government, the Ministry of Higher Education, and the Polytechnic’s Governing Council to take urgent action before the situation worsens.
The demands outlined include:
- Immediate payment of all outstanding salaries.
- A structured and prompt salary payment system.
- An independent review of employment practices to match financial realities.
- Stronger government oversight to hold management accountable.
“The dignity of labour must be respected. Staff welfare is not a privilege, it is a right,” the statement concluded, warning that continued neglect could plunge the institution into further mediocrity.
