Public primary and secondary school teachers across Abia State will embark on an indefinite strike starting Thursday, following the government’s failure to meet several long-standing demands.

In a statement jointly signed by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) State Chairman, Mr. Friday Madu, and Secretary, Mrs. Nnenna Okonkwo, the union confirmed the strike action after the expiration of a seven-day notice and a prior 14-day ultimatum issued on March 28.

The teachers are protesting the non-payment of the minimum wage and the Teachers Salary Structure (TSS) in their March salaries. According to the union, other workers with special salary structures such as medical and judicial staff received their full entitlements, while teachers were excluded.

The NUT also condemned the continued premature retirement of basic school teachers by the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), despite Governor Alex Otti’s directive extending the retirement age to 65 years or 40 years of service, whichever comes first.

Further grievances include irregular promotions, non-payment of arrears, and perceived disparities in how outstanding payments are being disbursed. While some secondary school teachers have received part of their arrears, those in basic education remain largely unpaid.

The union emphasized that the strike would proceed unless the government urgently addresses their demands.