By: Fémí Emmanuel
Ogbomoso, Oyo State – Medical personnel at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, have continued their industrial action, protesting the non-implementation of the new national minimum wage for healthcare workers by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The strike, which has been ongoing for several weeks, has severely impacted medical services at the facility. Health workers expressed deep frustration over what they described as the government’s nonchalant attitude toward prioritizing healthcare and the welfare of medical professionals.
According to some of the striking personnel, the implementation of the new minimum wage is long overdue and should have been effected without delay. They noted that the government’s failure to act demonstrates a disregard for both the health sector and the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
“The welfare of medical personnel should be a top priority if the government truly values the lives of its citizens,” one of the striking workers stated. “Delaying the implementation of this wage increase is not only unjust but also detrimental to the already fragile healthcare system.”
There are growing concerns that the prolonged strike could further cripple healthcare delivery, especially in Ogbomoso and surrounding areas. Many patients are reportedly unable to access urgent medical care due to the absence of doctors.
A staff member at the hospital, Mr. Olatunde Peter, confirmed to a Scoophase correspondent that nurses have resumed duties, but resident doctors remain off duty. He added that the continued strike by doctors has sparked mixed reactions from the public, especially among patients in need of urgent medical attention.
Efforts to speak with the hospital’s Public Relations Officer or any authorized spokesperson proved abortive, as all attempts by Scoophase reporters to secure an interview were unsuccessful.
Health experts warn that the ongoing crisis could escalate if not promptly addressed. They are calling on the Minister of Health to intervene and initiate constructive dialogue with the striking workers to reach a resolution.
A popular proverb sums up the situation aptly: “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” In this case, the Nigerian public remains the greatest casualty, as access to affordable and quality healthcare becomes increasingly uncertain.
The medical personnel have reiterated their demand for a proactive and sincere approach from the Federal Government, stressing that only the full implementation of the new minimum wage will bring an end to the strike and restore services at the teaching hospital.
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