By Elizabeth Godwin
Medical doctors under the employment of the Lagos State Government, operating under the umbrella of the Medical Guild, have commenced a three-day warning strike following what they describe as unauthorised and unjust salary deductions.
In a statement jointly signed by the Guild’s Chairman, Dr. Japhet Olugbogi, and Secretary, Dr. Adekunle Akinade, the association expressed dismay over the state’s decision to reduce doctors’ salaries in July without prior notice, despite previous engagements and assurances.
According to the Guild, the state government had earlier deducted salaries, prompting doctors to raise concerns. Following discussions, the government had reportedly agreed to reverse the cuts and even set up a joint conciliation committee to address lingering issues. However, the doctors were stunned when the state treasury office again implemented salary reductions in July, undermining what they termed a fragile understanding.
Describing the act as “illegal, a breach of trust, and a violation of labour laws,” the Guild condemned the move, especially given the prevailing economic hardship and the ongoing brain drain (“Japa syndrome”) affecting the country’s health sector.
“It is most regrettable that at a time when other states are striving to retain medical personnel, Lagos – Nigeria’s economic hub – has chosen to further demoralise its health workers,” the statement read. The Guild noted that even the most senior doctor in Lagos earns less than $1,100 monthly, an amount now subject to further reduction.
Following an Emergency General Assembly held on July 26, with over 385 doctors in attendance, the Guild resolved to embark on a total withdrawal of services from 8 a.m. Monday, July 28 to 8 a.m. Thursday, July 31, unless the state government reverses the deductions and pays 12 months of revised CONMESS arrears owed to honorary consultants at LASUTH.
The Guild also issued a 21-day ultimatum, threatening an indefinite strike if the state fails to meet their demands.
The statement concluded with an appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently intervene and prevent further disruption in the state’s healthcare delivery.
