The Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Health Care Professionals (JOHESU) has insisted that it will continue its indefinite nationwide strike, despite the Federal Government’s directive to halt the payment of salaries under the ‘no work, no pay’ policy.
The union announced the decision in a memo issued on Tuesday and signed by its National Secretary, Mr. Martin Egbanubi. The memo was circulated to presidents, general secretaries, and state chairmen of JOHESU’s affiliate unions in Abuja.
According to the union, the decision followed an emergency virtual meeting of its national leadership held on January 12, during which developments surrounding the ongoing industrial action were reviewed.
“We remain committed to our strike as we continue to press for the implementation of the adjusted Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) and other welfare-related demands,” Mr. Egbanubi said.
JOHESU recalled that the Federal Government had directed chief medical directors and managing directors of health institutions, through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, to enforce the ‘no work, no pay’ policy against striking workers.
The union described the directive as a familiar tactic often deployed by government authorities to pressure workers when there are delays in resolving labour disputes.
It maintained that it complied fully with all procedures stipulated under the Trade Disputes Act before embarking on the strike, stressing that the industrial action constitutes a lawful dispute of right rather than a violation of industrial relations laws.
JOHESU further urged its members to remain resolute and united, calling for sustained solidarity and support. The union said it would intensify monitoring of the strike, continue picketing, and scale up media engagement, while exploring additional strategies to achieve its demands.
