Ekiti Teachers Protest Against Proposed LG Autonomy
Teachers in Ekiti state on Monday stormed the streets of Ado Ekiti, the state capital, to protest against the planned inclusion of primary school administration in the proposed autonomy of local governments, saying the move is to the detriment of their profession.
The teachers, operating under the aegis of Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), massed at the Awedele junction chanting solidarity songs, as they headed for the State House of Assembly, where they were received by lawmakers, led by the Speaker, Hon. Kola Oluwawole.
They were armed with placards with inscriptions like ‘LG autonomy is perpetual slavery for primary education’, ‘Don’t enslave primary education with LG autonomy’, ‘Foundation of primary education in Nigeria is under threat with proposed LG autonomy’, ‘No to LG autonomy with primary school funding’ and ‘Once beaten, twice shy, no marriage of primary schools with LGs’.
Addressing the protesters, NUT Chairman in the state, Com. Samuel Segun Olugbesan, warned of serious consequences of ceding the administration of primary schools, including payment of salaries and allowances of teachers of primary schools to councils, should they eventually be given autonomy.
Oluwawole, who was accompanied by his deputy, Segun Adewumi, Head of Service, Dr Gbenga Faseluka and Chief of Staff to the governor, Bar. Dipo Anisulowo, assured that both the governor and the State Assembly would support them in their agitation, adding that whatever would disturb prompt and timely payment of teachers must be avoided by all means.
Oluwawole said: “You are making a legitimate demand and Ekiti state government will support you. Primary education is the foundation of enlightenment. The payment of teachers has to be regular and sustainable. You have submitted a position paper which will be channeled to the national headquarters for proper address.”
