Bauchi Operators Decry Alleged Unjust Firing After 7 Years

The Association of Fingerprint Terminal Operators under the Bauchi State Ministry of Education has raised concerns over what it described as the “unjust” disengagement of more than 200 casual staff after over seven (7) years of service.

In a statement jointly signed by its chairman, Comrade Musa Alfa, and Secretary, Comrade Abubakar Salisu Burai and made available to journalists in Bauchi yesterday, the association appealed to the Bauchi state government to urgently review the decision, reinstate the affected workers, and consider their absorption into the state civil service.

The group stated that although they were employed on a casual basis, they served diligently with commitment, sacrifice, and a strong sense of responsibility.

“With deep pain and a strong sense of injustice, we draw attention to the disengagement of over 200 casual staff under the Ministry of Education,” the statement read.

“For more than seven years, we served faithfully as Fingerprint Terminal Operators, contributing significantly to the education system in Bauchi State.”

According to the association, their role was critical in ensuring accountability within schools by monitoring teachers’ attendance and punctuality, thereby strengthening discipline and improving teaching and learning outcomes.

“Our work was not ordinary. We played a vital role in ensuring that teachers reported to duty on time and carried out their responsibilities effectively,” the statement added.

The group, however, expressed disappointment that after years of service, they were disengaged without prior notice, fair hearing, or consideration of their contributions.

“It is heartbreaking that after years of sacrifice, we were suddenly disengaged without warning or due process,” they said.

They further noted that the decision has plunged many affected workers and their families into hardship, as most depend solely on the job for survival.

“Over 200 households are now facing uncertainty, emotional distress, and financial hardship. Some of us have no alternative means of livelihood,” the association lamented.

The group appealed to the government not to allow the decision to ruin the lives of dedicated workers who have contributed to the development of the state’s education sector.

They also urged the government to give them priority in the ongoing recruitment exercise, stressing that they are already trained, experienced, and qualified.

“Many of us hold qualifications such as ND, NCE, and degrees. We are capable and have proven our value over the years,” the statement noted.

The association called for a fair and transparent recruitment process that recognizes their years of service and sacrifice.

“All we ask for is fairness, compassion, and an opportunity to continue contributing to the development of our state,” they added.

They reaffirmed their commitment to peace and lawfulness while expressing hope that the government would intervene compassionately.

LEADERSHIP recalled that the Fingerprint Terminal Operators were initially engaged by the first Commissioner for Education under the Bala Mohammed administration, Dr. Aliyu Tilde, to monitor teachers’ attendance and ensure punctuality and effective performance of their duties.

However, it remains unclear whether the current commissioner for education, Abdulkadir Ibrahim, intends to sustain this system or introduce a different approach.

As of the time of filing this report, the Bauchi State Ministry of Education has not issued an official statement or response concerning the issue.