Ondo Doctors Commence Strike Due to Seven-Month Unpaid Salaries

The Association of Resident Doctors at the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital in Ondo State has initiated a 14-day warning strike in protest of the non-payment of salaries spanning seven months for their new members. Engaging in a mini protest on the hospital premises, members of the association have adamantly stated their intent to disrupt operations at the government-owned medical facility until their grievances are addressed.

During the protest, Dr. John Matthew, President of the UNIMEDTH ARD, conveyed the frustration of the doctors to journalists, highlighting the lingering issue of unpaid salaries and entitlements. Specifically, they demand the full settlement of salary arrears owed to their members, the payment of February 2024 palliative to House Officers, and the prompt disbursement of February hazard allowances. Additionally, urgent attention is sought to rectify the severe clinical manpower shortage within the institution.

Concerns over the shortage of resident doctors in state-owned hospitals have also been raised by the state chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association, urging the government to swiftly address the issue to ensure the effective functioning of healthcare services in the state.