7th September, 2012
The meeting between the state government and the unions at Tai Solarin College of Education,TASCE, Omu-Ijebu in Odogbolu local government area of Ogun State, southwestNigeria, ended in a deadlock Thursday.
The institution was shut Wednesday by the leadership of the Non Academic Staff Union, NASU led by Comrade Osoba, National Academics of Technicians, NAT, led by Comrade Adegunwa and Senior Staff Union of College of Education, SSUCOED led by Comrade Oropo.
When the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Barr. Segun Odubela arrived the college Thursday afternoon, the aggrieved union members did not allow him come out of his car before they began to boo him.
The Commissioner was not allowed to settle down as the meeting was held on the main road in the college premises.
The commissioner had to leave the venue when he could no longer withstand the booing by angry staff who insisted that their salary arrears must be paid without any further delay.
The commissioner, while trying to persuade the staff, said: “we understand your plight, I want to plead with you to give us just 21 days from today, we shall sort out all these issues.”
Before the man could speak further, the echo of,”no, no, no,our money now or no discussion”, rent the air and at that point the atmosphere became too charged for the commissioner who hurriedly drove away.
Earlier, the three Union leaders had accused the commissioner of politicising the issue, saying they don’t believe what the government tells them anymore.
According to them, “we cannot continue like this. Our families are dying at home, we need our money, it’s our right and our sweat, you must give it to us.” The members have vowed not to succumb to any intimidation or harassment from the government, saying what they are fighting for is their legitimate right and are ready to fight it with the last drop of their blood.
Immediately the commissioner left they locked the school’s entrance while some people were seen discussing the situation.
The union leaders were planning to have an emergency general meeting Friday.
By Abiodun Onafuye/ Abeokuta