LAUTECH Resident Doctors Continue Strike Over Welfare Issues for 32 Days

Resident doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, have been on strike for 32 days. They are protesting over issues related to their welfare, including unpaid allowances and other benefits.

The Association of Resident Doctors at the hospital stated that their demands include implementing the Professional Allowance Table, paying outstanding Medical Residency Training Fund, and settling six months of Minimum Wage arrears. They began this strike after an eight-week ultimatum to address these issues expired.

In a statement, the doctors acknowledged some progress, such as efforts to create a legal framework for the Medical Residency Training Act and partial payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund. However, they emphasized that the Professional Allowance Table and other welfare conditions are crucial for retaining medical staff.

Oyo State is currently the only state in the South-West that has not implemented the Professional Allowance Table, which the doctors say affects their ability to keep skilled personnel. They highlighted that the hospital offers specialized services in various fields and is a key referral center for patients.

The doctors urged the Oyo State Government to take action to improve their welfare packages, which they believe will help attract and retain medical professionals. They expressed hope that the state government would respond positively to their concerns and restore the hospital’s capacity to provide quality healthcare.

They remain committed to dialogue with the government and other stakeholders to resolve the strike. The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has shown support for the LAUTECH doctors, warning that unresolved issues could lead to broader strikes across the region and country.