Health workers in Edo State have vowed to continue their industrial action despite the state government’s warning that the strike was ill-conceived and unnecessary.
The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Edo State Chapter, had on Friday midnight commenced a seven-day warning strike following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the government.
In a message sent to members on Sunday, the union’s Public Relations Officer, Iduwe Endurance, urged total compliance, stating that “anything short of total participation will not be tolerated.”
According to a statement jointly signed by the State Chairman, Osagie Ogbeide, and Secretary, Barivure Kpakol, the union accused the government of failing to show genuine commitment toward meeting its demands, which include improved welfare and the renovation of health facilities across the state.
“All members are directed to withdraw their services with immediate effect in all state and local government health facilities until the state government demonstrates concrete actions toward addressing the union’s demands,” the statement read.
However, Governor Monday Okpebholo has condemned the strike, alleging that it was being instigated by a few union leaders pursuing selfish interests.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor described the action as “ill-timed, unpatriotic, and unjustified,” stressing that negotiations were already ongoing between both parties.
“It is disappointing that the union leadership hastily declared a strike while meaningful dialogue was still in progress. The current administration has shown sincerity and commitment to reforming the health sector,” Itua said.
He added that the issues raised by the union were largely inherited from the previous administration, including the renovation of doctors’ quarters, which he said was already receiving attention.
The government also alleged that the strike stemmed from “unlawful financial demands” by some individuals within the union’s leadership, insisting that it would not yield to such pressures.
Governor Okpebholo further expressed concern that the strike had endangered the lives of poor and vulnerable citizens who depend on public health facilities for medical care, calling it a betrayal of the Hippocratic Oath.
Meanwhile, some union members told Hobnob News that they remain resolute and will not return to work until directed by their leaders.
“We are standing by our leaders. We hope the issues will be resolved before the end of the warning strike,” one member said on condition of anonymity.
