Health workers in Ondo State have given the state government a 15-day ultimatum to meet their demands or face a strike.
The workers, under the Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals, expressed their concerns about poor working conditions and discrimination.
In a letter dated October 10, 2024, addressed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the union highlighted several issues affecting health workers. The letter was signed by Comrade Elusoji Olumide, the State Chairman, and Comrade (Dr) Adeojo Michael, the State Secretary.
The letter states, “The members of Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), Ondo State Council wishes to draw the attention of the government under your leadership to the incessant discriminatory actions and tendencies against its members in Ondo State.”
The union claims that the Ondo State government has ignored the welfare of healthcare workers, especially during these difficult economic times. They pointed out that while doctors have received better pay and working conditions, other health workers continue to suffer.
The letter continued, “The government has been written severally on the need to support state government health workers as it is being done for their colleagues in the federal government-owned health institutions. The status quo has remained leading to a state of despair and demoralization.”
The health workers warned that if their demands are not met, they will “withdraw the services of our members from all State Government hospitals across the state indefinitely after the expiration of this notice.”
The union urged the governor to show empathy and address their issues, stating, “Health workers are drained, exhausted, sick and cannot afford routine regimens to sustain their health. How then can we render adequate health services to patients in need when our needs are grossly neglected?”
They concluded their letter with a plea, “Please save our souls, our dear governor! We anticipate your understanding and kind consideration, going forward, sir.”
