The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Kaduna State Wing, has distanced itself from a planned protest by a group identified as the Coalition of Primary School Teachers (CPST) over the alleged non-implementation of the new minimum wage.
In a statement jointly signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Ibrahim Dalhatu, and State Secretary, Comrade Adamu Ayuba Kaltungo, and made available to Journalists on Wednesday, the union clarified that CPST is not a recognised organ of the NUT and therefore lacks the legal standing to speak or act on behalf of teachers in the state.
“The so-called CPST is not affiliated with the NUT. It lacks the locus standi to advocate for either primary or secondary school teachers in Kaduna State. Only the Nigeria Union of Teachers has the statutory mandate to represent and speak for teachers,” the statement read.
The union further stressed that while it acknowledges the right of individuals to express grievances, any form of protest, strike, or industrial action must follow due process and comply with extant labour laws.
“If the need arises for a protest or strike, the union will officially notify the relevant authorities with dates, time, and venues, duly signed by the State Secretary and Chairman. We therefore disassociate ourselves from the protest being championed by the CPST,” the union stated.
On the core issue of the minimum wage, the NUT disclosed that it has been engaging with the Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board (KADSUBEB) on the matter and the state government has set up a committee to conduct biometric verification of teachers and other civil servants as a prerequisite for implementing the wage increase.
“The union agreed to the biometric exercise, recognising the importance of accurate data in streamlining salaries and improving transparency,” the statement added.
The NUT noted that contrary to CPST’s claim, no civil servant in Kaduna currently receives the proposed N72,000 minimum wage, adding that negotiations are still ongoing between organised labour and the government.
The union also addressed issues related to delayed salary payments, attributing the situation to the timeline of federal allocation disbursements and subsequent internal processes within the local governments and KADSUBEB.
On promotion, permanency, and pensions, the NUT said discussions were still in progress with relevant authorities.
Restating its position, the union noted that it does not align with the CPST’s approach, insisting on constructive dialogue as a more effective route to achieving results under the current administration, which it described as open to negotiation.
The statement added with a call for restraint among teachers, urging them to remain calm and law-abiding as efforts are underway in conjunction with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to secure implementation of the minimum wage and consequential adjustments.
“We also appeal to His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani, to prevail on the verification committee to expedite action and submit their report before the expiration of the deadline set by the NLC and its affiliates,” the union stated.
