Federal Minister of Education Dr Alausa Tunji |
Workers of the Federal Ministry of Education on Wednesday blocked the entrance to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, preventing Minister of Education Dr Tunji Alausa and Acting Permanent Secretary Dr Folake Olatunji-David from accessing their offices.
Protesters gathered at the main gate as a motorcade believed to be conveying the minister arrived. In a video circulating on social media, the workers chanted “Alausa must go” while stopping vehicles from entering the premises.
The action stems from an ongoing dispute between workers’ unions and the Federal Government. Key grievances include the proposed 35-year concession of King’s College, Lagos, to its old boys’ association, as well as broader concerns over staff welfare and administrative practices within the ministry.
Unions had earlier called for Alausa’s removal and voiced strong opposition to the reported concession plan for the historic school. Workers have also highlighted unresolved welfare issues and other management-related complaints.
The latest blockade indicates that tensions between the ministry’s leadership and its workforce remain high despite previous attempts at dialogue. The protest underscores deep dissatisfaction among staff over policy decisions and working conditions under the current administration.
No immediate official response from the minister or the ministry was reported following the incident. The demonstration reflects continuing friction in the education sector as unions push for greater accountability and the reversal of contested decisions.