The Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals in Oyo State Hospitals Management Board has initiated a seven-day warning strike to push for their demands. Unit chairman Olanrewaju Ajani announced the strike, which began on Monday, following the expiration of an ultimatum issued to the state government on February 23.

Ajani stated that the union’s demands, which have been pending for an extended period, have not received adequate attention from the state government. The strike, effective from February 26 to March 4, aims to compel the government to address these longstanding grievances.

Members of the union in hospitals and health facilities across the state have been directed to participate in the strike, which will continue until March 11. Failure to achieve satisfactory outcomes may result in an indefinite strike, affecting services in general, state, and specialist/teaching hospitals statewide.

The ultimatum aligns with section 41 of the Trade Disputes Act, Cap. T8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Despite numerous meetings and negotiations with relevant authorities, including the Oyo State Hospitals’ Management Board and Ministry of Health, the union’s demands remain unaddressed.

Key demands include the implementation of the new national hazard allowance for health professionals, teaching allowance for NUAHP members involved in training interns and students, and adjustment of the CONHESS table. Additionally, members seek the release of promotion letters, restoration of call duty allowance for dental therapists, and recruitment of more health workers.

Ajani urged Governor Seyi Makinde to urgently address the grievances of NUAHP members. The union emphasizes the importance of prompt action to resolve these issues and ensure the effective delivery of healthcare services in Oyo State.

The strike underscores the frustration of health professionals and highlights the need for improved working conditions and government responsiveness to the concerns of frontline workers in the healthcare sector.