Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Thursday April 1 commenced an indefinite strike despite holding a meeting and reportedly signing an agreement with the federal government on Wednesday March 31.
NARD had threatened to commence an ‘indefinite strike’ on Thursday if the Nigerian Government fails to meet its demands.
Issues raised by the aggrieved doctors in their Notice of Trade Dispute include non-payment of salaries of some house officers, non-recruitment of house officers, abolishment of the bench fees for doctors undergoing training in other hospitals, non-payment of National Minimum Wage and hazard allowance.
The strike commenced Thursdsy morning, and all resident doctors have been directed to join in the strike action immediately.
Minister of Labour and Employment, Doctor Chris Ngige had a conciliatory meeting with the leaders of the union on Wednesday in Abuja.
He appealed to the aggrieved medical practitioners to have a rethink and sheathe their swords, saying the Federal Government continues to make efforts to ensure their demands are met.
While giving an update on the meeting, Okhuaihesuyi pointed out that government proposals are not new.
He reiterated the need for the government to take on more responsibilities.
Following the meeting with the Minister of Labour, the doctors insisted they were not just doing this for resident doctors, but for all health workers.
