Primary school teachers in Delta State have expressed outrage over the N5,000 deduction from each teacher’s salary for the production of identity cards by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Delta State wing. The teachers have described the deduction as unfair, particularly in the current economic climate, where many are struggling to make ends meet.
The deduction directive came from the NUT's state wing, communicated through a circular issued on September 26, 2024, and addressed to the Ministry of Local Government Service Commission. The circular, signed by NUT Secretary Dan Basime, ordered the deduction of N5,000 from the salaries of primary school teachers and staff of the Local Government Education Authority for the production of identity cards.
The letter reads: “I am directed by the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Delta State Wing to officially inform you to commence production of identity card (ID), for Primary School Teachers as well as the staff of the Local Government Education Authority as discussed. I am to also add that the cost of producing of the ID be deducted twice from their salaries at source.”
This decision has not gone down well with the teachers, who have questioned why the union is imposing such a financial burden on them during these tough economic times. Many teachers have criticized the cost of producing the identity cards, noting that mass production should significantly lower the expenses. They are left wondering why primary school teachers, in particular, seem to be the constant target of unfavorable policies.
"Why were they elected to oversee the activities of the teachers? Why is the primary school teachers always their targets in all their policies? Were they elected to extort and punish us or to work for our interest?" several teachers asked, voicing their frustration at what they perceive as exploitation.
In addition, the teachers are concerned about the continued delay in the payment of arrears owed to them by the state government. They suspect the delay is part of an effort to manipulate their earnings for unnecessary deductions. “Our secondary school counterparts have been paid and they were paid completely, why is ours different?” they questioned, noting that the treatment of primary school teachers starkly contrasts with that of their colleagues in secondary schools.
The aggrieved teachers are now calling on Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to intervene and put a stop to what they describe as oppressive and exploitative practices by the NUT. They argue that the union should focus on protecting their interests rather than imposing what they see as an unjust financial burden on already struggling teachers.
