Research and allied institutions’ unions in Nigeria have threatened indefinite strike starting from October 13, should the federal government fail to meet their demands.

Comprising 67 research and allied institutions under the umbrella body of the Joint Research and Allied Institutions Sector Unions (JORASIU), the unions are demanding the federal government implement an agreement reached in December 2010.

JORASIU chairman, Peters Adeyemi, on Monday in Abuja at a news conference said, “We have issued the Federal Government a 15-day ultimatum to fully implement the 10-year agreement entered with the unions.

“Falling to do so, JORAISU leadership will have no option than to call out its members in about 67 Research and Allied institutions effective Oct. 13, for indefinite strike, and until the issue in dispute are resolved, the strike will not be called off,” he said.

Mr Adeyemi noted that the unions had held 33 meetings with the federal government which yielded little or no result.

“Our demands include non-payment of 12 months CONRAISS arrears of 53.37 per cent salary increase for which NTTR Kaduna, NVRI Vom, NCAM Iiorin, ASCON Topo, Badagry had been paid part leaving out others.

“Withdrawal of circular on non-skipping of salary Grade Level 10 National Industrial Court of Nigeria judgment in favour of trade unions and others.

“Retirement age of 65 for non-research staff as is obtainable in the universities and others.

“Peculiarity Allowances/Earned Allowances. Establishment of a central body to be known as National Research Institutes Commission (NARICOM), adequate funding of research institutes; and Release of Scheme/Conditions of Service,” Mr Adeyemi said.

(NAN)