The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), representing clinical lecturers at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), has announced an indefinite strike, set to commence on Monday. This decision follows unresolved grievances over working conditions, remuneration, and welfare, which the association claims have been neglected despite repeated engagements with relevant authorities.
The announcement was made by MDCAN’s LUTH chapter, highlighting critical concerns that have persisted for months without resolution. Among the key issues cited are salary disparities, unpaid allowances, and poor working conditions, which have reportedly hindered the effective delivery of medical education and healthcare services at the institution.
A spokesperson for MDCAN LUTH stated that despite numerous appeals and negotiations, the government and hospital management have failed to address their demands. “We have exercised patience, engaged in dialogue, and exhausted all possible avenues to resolve these pressing issues. Unfortunately, our concerns have been met with delays and inadequate responses,” the spokesperson said.
The indefinite strike means that medical students at LUTH will be directly affected, as clinical lectures, ward rounds, and other academic activities will be suspended. Additionally, the hospital’s operations are expected to suffer disruptions, as consultant lecturers also provide critical medical services in various departments.
Patients and healthcare workers have expressed concerns about the looming crisis, fearing that prolonged industrial action could lead to increased delays in medical care and worsen the already strained healthcare system. Some medical students have also voiced frustration, citing fears that the disruption could impact their academic progress and professional training.
Authorities at LUTH and the Federal Ministry of Health have yet to respond officially to the announcement. However, insiders suggest that emergency meetings may be convened in an attempt to avert the strike.
MDCAN has reiterated that unless their demands are met, they will not call off the industrial action. “Our members deserve fair treatment, and we will not return to work until our grievances are addressed satisfactorily,” the association emphasized.
As negotiations unfold, stakeholders in the healthcare sector will be closely monitoring developments, hoping for a swift resolution to prevent further strain on Nigeria’s healthcare system.
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