In a bid to address longstanding grievances, medical and health workers across Oyo State are gearing up for a seven-day warning strike starting Monday. This decision was confirmed by Mr. John Fabunmi, President of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) state chapter, during a press briefing in Ibadan on Sunday.
The strike action, which will involve members from various health institutions including ministries, departments, and local government councils, aims to protest the state government’s alleged neglect of their demands.
Key issues highlighted by Fabunmi include the extension of hazard allowances to all health workers in the state, not limited to those working solely in hospitals. The union also seeks the reinstatement of members removed from the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), as well as the inclusion of those yet to be placed under this structure.
Despite issuing a 14-day ultimatum that expired on June 21, Fabunmi lamented that the state government has not responded adequately to their concerns.
“As a result,” he stated, “we have no choice but to embark on this seven-day warning strike to compel the government to address our demands.”
The impending strike follows a similar action initiated by nurses and midwives in the state. The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) state chapter commenced an indefinite strike on May 21, led by Chairman Adeyemi Samuel, due to unmet demands from the government. This strike has significantly impacted healthcare services across the state.
These ongoing strikes underscore broader challenges within Nigeria’s healthcare system, which has been plagued by frequent industrial actions and a notable brain drain. In recent years, healthcare professionals have increasingly sought opportunities abroad, exacerbating staffing shortages and straining resources in hospitals nationwide.
The MHWUN’s warning strike is set to commence on Monday, June 24, affecting healthcare delivery across various sectors in Oyo State until their demands are met by the state government.