The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, has commenced an indefinite strike over unresolved welfare and working condition issues affecting its members.
The industrial action took effect at 8:00 a.m. on Monday following resolutions reached at an Emergency General Meeting of the association held on June 20.
In a communiqué jointly signed by the ARD President, Dr. Jesunbo Martins, and General Secretary, Dr. Toyyeb Oladipo, the association said the decision was taken after the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum earlier issued to the hospital management.
The resident doctors accused the management of failing to satisfactorily address their demands and resolve issues relating to members’ welfare.
According to the association, management’s response dated June 17 did not adequately address the concerns raised and allegedly misrepresented facts, agreements reached during negotiations, and the current status of discussions between both parties.
Among the key demands of the doctors are the restoration of call-duty meal provisions, free issuance of official identity cards, allocation of available residential accommodation, and inclusion of resident doctors in applicable allowances.
The association also called for the abolition of bench fees imposed on resident doctors from accredited private teaching hospitals undertaking training at the institution.
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The ARD stated that its members would continue the indefinite strike and accompanying peaceful protest until the hospital management addresses the outstanding issues and meets its demands.
The development is expected to affect medical services at the tertiary health institution, with patients likely to experience disruptions in healthcare delivery during the period of the industrial action.
As of the time of filing this report, the management of OAUTHC had not issued an official response to the commencement of the strike.
The latest action adds to concerns over recurring welfare-related disputes within Nigeria’s health sector, as medical professionals continue to push for improved working conditions and better support for healthcare personnel.
