Healthcare services in government hospitals across Lagos State were disrupted on Monday as doctors under the Medical Guild embarked on a three-day warning strike, leaving numerous patients stranded and confused.
The Medical Guild—representing doctors employed by the Lagos State Government—announced the industrial action over what it termed “illegal and disrespectful” salary deductions and the non-payment of 12 months’ arrears to honorary consultants under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
The strike, which began on July 29 and is set to end on the morning of Thursday, July 31, followed the outcome of an emergency congress held over the weekend. In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Guild warned that it might proceed with an indefinite strike if its demands are not met within a 21-day ultimatum following the current action.
“We are prepared to escalate our measures if the government does not respond swiftly. The welfare of our members and the integrity of the health system are at stake,” the Guild said.
Monitoring Compliance and Warning of Sanctions
The Guild urged full compliance from its members, noting that its strike enforcement team would be monitoring facilities to ensure adherence.
“Sanctions will be implemented for non-compliance,” read a message directed to members.
Hospitals Operate on Skeletal Services
A visit by Hobnob News to General Hospitals in Isolo and Alimosho revealed that only emergency services were functional, while outpatient clinics remained closed. A similar situation was observed at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).
At Isolo General Hospital, a nurse informed waiting patients that most doctors had withdrawn their services. Only one consultant was expected, and her arrival time was uncertain.
“We only begged one of our consultants to come, and she’s on her way. Even if she arrives, she can only attend to a few patients,” the nurse said.
Patients without prior appointments were advised to reschedule, as the chances of receiving care were minimal.
Impact on Patients
Many patients expressed frustration and disappointment. One patient, who arrived at the ENT department without an appointment, was visibly upset.
“I’ve never been here before. I just came to see a doctor,” she said, after waiting for hours without being attended to.
Strike May Worsen as Nurses Threaten to Join
Health workers warned that the situation could deteriorate further with reports indicating that nurses across the country may join the strike from Tuesday, July 30. This could lead to a nationwide shutdown of clinical services, including in Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and other tertiary institutions.
“Tomorrow, nurses are joining, which means the clinical section will be shut down,” a hospital staff member warned.
Government Appeals for Calm
In response, the Lagos State Government has appealed for calm, assuring the public that all grievances raised by the Medical Guild are being addressed with “sincerity and urgency.”
Negotiations and stakeholder engagements with the Guild are said to be ongoing.
