The serene atmosphere of the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area was shattered on a Tuesday morning as over a thousand residents of Ikot Osurua, the polytechnic’s host community, staged a vehement protest at the institution’s main gate. Their grievances centered on two key issues: the appointment of a non-indigene as the Community Liaison Officer (CLO) and the perceived inadequacies of the outgoing Rector, Dr. Moses Umobong, whose tenure was set to expire in two months. This demonstration underscored the complex relationship between academic institutions and their surrounding communities, highlighting the importance of inclusivity, fair labor practices, and transparent communication in fostering harmonious coexistence.
The protesters’ primary demand revolved around the position of CLO, a role traditionally held by a member of the host community. This position serves as a crucial bridge between the institution and the local populace, facilitating communication and addressing community concerns. The appointment of a non-indigene to this sensitive role was perceived by the Ikot Osurua community as a disregard for their customary rights and a breach of an unspoken agreement. They argued that a member of their community would possess a deeper understanding of local dynamics, sensitivities, and needs, thereby fostering more effective communication and collaboration between the polytechnic and its immediate environment.
Adding fuel to the fire were the protesters’ accusations against Rector Umobong, whose actions they deemed detrimental to the welfare of the polytechnic staff. They specifically condemned his decision to slash the salaries of part-time staff from N50,000 to N30,000, a move they considered particularly insensitive given the prevailing economic conditions and the nationwide clamor for a new minimum wage. This decision was not only perceived as economically unjust but also as a violation of established civil service rules and regulations. The protesters argued that such a drastic pay cut would severely impact the livelihoods of the affected staff and their families, further exacerbating their economic hardship.
The protest, commencing at 7 a.m., brought activities on campus to a grinding halt. The demonstrators, armed with placards bearing inscriptions such as “CLO our right,” “Umobong, worst Rector in history of Akwa Poly,” and “Umobong slashes part-time workers’ salary from N50,000 to N30,000,” sang solidarity songs and effectively barricaded the main gate, preventing staff and students from accessing the premises. The disruption extended to the ongoing Students’ Union Government Week, a testament to the scale and impact of the demonstration.
Rector Umobong, caught in the eye of the storm, expressed his disappointment at the protest, emphasizing the proximity of his departure from office. He questioned the rationale behind the demonstration, given that his tenure was nearing its end. However, he acknowledged the need to address the situation formally and promised to provide a more detailed response after briefing the state government on the unfolding events. His brief response, while acknowledging the protest, did little to assuage the concerns of the demonstrating community members who were seeking immediate action and concrete solutions.
The protest at the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic highlights the intricate dynamics that often exist between educational institutions and their host communities. It underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting the rights and interests of local communities, particularly in matters that directly impact their welfare and socio-economic standing. The demand for a locally appointed CLO can be interpreted as a call for greater representation and inclusion in the institution’s decision-making processes, reflecting a desire for the polytechnic to be more responsive to the needs of its immediate environment.
Furthermore, the protest draws attention to the critical importance of fair labor practices within educational institutions. The alleged salary cuts for part-time staff, especially in the context of a national push for a higher minimum wage, raise serious questions about the polytechnic’s commitment to the well-being of its employees. The protesters’ condemnation of this action reflects a broader societal concern about economic inequality and the need for organizations to prioritize the economic security of their workforce. The incident serves as a reminder that institutions have a responsibility to uphold ethical employment practices and contribute to the overall economic stability of their communities.
