Health Workers commence Indefinite Strike, JOHESU Declares

0
1853

In a media briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, the national vice president of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), Obinna Ogbonna, announced the commencement of an indefinite strike. Effective from Thursday, May 25, JOHESU has directed its members to withdraw their services indefinitely.

This move comes after the union issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding adjustments to the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers.

The ultimatum, which started on May 10, reached its expiration at midnight on Thursday, May 25.

During the media briefing, Obinna Ogbonna expressed the union’s frustration with the Ministry of Health’s perceived indifference, bias, and lackadaisical approach towards JOHESU members.

He emphasized that the decision to go on strike was a direct result of the expanded National Executive Council meeting held on May 8.

“Our members in federal health institutions nationwide are hereby directed to withdraw their services indefinitely commencing from 00:00 hour on Thursday, May 25, 2023,” declared Obinna Ogbonna.

The indefinite strike by health workers under the umbrella of JOHESU raises concerns about the potential impact on the healthcare system and patient care.

It remains to be seen how the Federal Government will respond to the union’s demands and address the ongoing negotiations regarding the CONHESS adjustment.