The serene academic atmosphere of government owned tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State has been disrupted as workers began an indefinite strike action to protest non-implementation of the 65-year retirement age policy for non-teaching staff, a federal government law.

In a letter sent to the State Governor, Pastor UMO ENO and sighted by INSPIRATION FM News, the Council of Unions in Akwa Ibom State Owned Tertiary Institutions expressed dismay over the disparity in implementation of the policy in the state, stating that it constituted a grave injustice against their members.

The unions alleged that the disparity was a breach of the Retirement Age of Staff of Polytechnics and Colleges of Education (Harmonization) Act 2012 and called for immediate resolution.

They noted that academic activities at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, College of Education, Afaha Nsit, and Akwa Ibom State College of Science and Technology, Nung Ukim, have been suspended indefinitely.

The letter, jointly signed by the President of the Council of Unions, Comrade MICHEAL OKONNYANG as well as the Secretary, Comrade ANIEFIOK AFFIAH, stated that the controversy that could have hindered the implementation of the policy has been resolved through a letter directed to the National Assembly on September 23, 2014.

The Union also accused the state government officials of ignoring their pleas despite sending several letters on the subject matter. They also said that it is worrisome that Akwa Ibom State is among the three states in the federation yet to implement the federal law of 65 years for retirement for non-academic workers.