ASUP Demands Probe Into N1.3bn Pension Deductions

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), led by Comrade Kadala Solomon Bandi, is calling for a forensic audit and the establishment of a verification panel by the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Board for Technical Education regarding alleged unremitted pension deductions at Mubi Polytechnic. Bandi stated that the non-remittance of staff pension contributions has persisted for up to ten years under various administrations, violating the Pension Reform Act 2014.

He highlighted that the institution has not paid deducted funds to the National Pension Commission (PenCom) for periods ranging from six months to over two years. The total unremitted amount is estimated at N1.3 billion, potentially incurring penalties of approximately N38 million.

ASUP has exhausted internal negotiation avenues and is prepared to embark on an indefinite strike. In response, the Polytechnic's Rector, Dr. Abdulrahman Aspita Ishaku, acknowledged the validity of ASUP's concerns but accused the union of violating a Memorandum of Understanding by not suspending the strike.