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The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has embarked on an indefinite strike, with the Assembly of Health Care Professional Association joining the industrial action. The announcement was made by Dr Obinna Ogbonna, JOHESU National Vice President, during a press conference on Thursday, citing the Federal government’s “lackadaisical attitude” towards the union’s demands as the reason for the strike. The health unions signatory to the decision to commence strike under JOHESU comprises four affiliate unions: Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI), Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations (AHPA)).

In a letter dated May 9, 2023, JOHESU had given the Federal Government a 15-day ultimatum to meet its demands before deciding on the strike action. However, after the expiration of the ultimatum, and a resolution reached in a meeting, Dr Obinna announced the indefinite strike to commence immediately.

“Consequent upon the nonchalant, biased, and lackadaisical attitude of the Federal Ministry of Health against JOHESU members and the resolution of the expanded National Executive Council meeting of JOHESU held on Monday, May 8, 2023, our members in Federal Health Institutions nationwide are hereby directed to withdraw their services indefinitely commencing from 00:00 hours on Thursday, May 25, 2023,” he said.

JOHESU, the healthcare sector’s largest workforce in Nigeria, is majorly found in secondary and tertiary medical and health institutions. The strike comes at a crucial time when Nigeria is preparing for the presidential inauguration ceremony, and the health unions’ industrial action may jeopardize the healthcare system’s readiness to cope with any emergencies that may arise.