Academic activities have been abruptly suspended across government-owned tertiary institutions in Plateau State following the commencement of a definite strike by the Joint Union of Academic Staff Plateau State Owned Tertiary Institutions in the early hours of Monday, April 27, 2026.
Announcing the strike, the Union in a statement obtained by Trill Times News and signed by Cirfat Yaknan Bulus and Dakyen Mark Makmis reaffirmed its decision to proceed with the industrial action, directing all chapters to ensure full compliance and the total suspension of academic activities until further notice.
The union disclosed that the action is a resumption of an earlier suspended three-day warning strike first declared on March 16, 2026, which was put on hold following assurances from government officials to fast-track the implementation of the 25 percent and 35 percent CONPCASS salary structure.
According to JUASPTI, the decision to suspend the earlier strike was taken in good faith after high-level interventions by key government functionaries, who pledged to resolve the matter promptly.
However, the union lamented that since the suspension, no concrete action has been taken by the government to fulfill its promises, accusing authorities of delay and lack of commitment. It further noted that the lingering dispute, which dates back to 2023, has fueled growing dissatisfaction and restiveness among its members across campuses.
The industrial action is expected to immediately disrupt ongoing first semester examinations at Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi, where students are in the middle of the 2025/2026 exam period.
The strike also follows recent negotiations between the union and the Plateau State Government after meetings held on April 24 and April 26. Discussions centered on financial implications of proposed salary adjustment tables, including full implementation options of 25 percent and 35 percent, with JUASPTI maintaining its demand for complete implementation.
However, the state government reportedly approved a ₦100 million lump sum to be shared among the institutions as an interim measure, citing financial limitations and the prospect of future improvements. It also appealed for the suspension of the strike pending the development of a sharing formula.
JUASPTI, while acknowledging the offer, rejected it, insisting it does not reflect its demand for full implementation. The union warned that the resumed three-day strike could escalate into a total and indefinite industrial action if the government fails to take decisive steps to address its demands.
Students across affected institutions have been left stranded as the standoff continues, with no immediate resolution in sight
