There is tension at the Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Community, Ekpoma, Edo State, South-South Nigeria, as both members of the Academic and Administrative Staff Unions of the Edo State owned institution.

Both unions are said to be spoiling for war with the management of the institution over alleged plans to cut staff salaries by 50 per cent as a result of the reduction in the monthly subvention from the state government.

The cause of the reduction in the state government’s monthly subvention to the University is yet unknown.

The tension at the University campus was heightened on Friday following a circular by the management, informing the entire staff that they would only be paid 50 per cent of their April salaries.

The circular which was signed by the University’s Director of Information and Public Relation, Edward U. Aihevba reads:” The University Community is hereby put on notice that based on the drastic reduction in the monthly subvention made available to the university by the state government there will be difficulty in paying full monthly salaries to staff henceforth.

“Consequently, staff are hereby informed that only a percentage of monthly salaries would be paid to staff until the situation improves.

“It must be added that the University Management was able to pay net in the month of March because of the savings from school fees at the disposal of the university.

“Staff are therefore advised to adjust their lifestyles and expenditure patterns until payment of full salaries are restored.

“The University Management passionately appeals for the understanding of all staff in this regards”.

When contacted, the chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities ASUU, AAU Chapter, Dr Monday Igbafen confirmed the tension at the University but said, the Union would be meeting to come up with their position on the issue latest Monday.(Independent)