Health workers at the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH) have raised concerns over the process for appointing the institution’s next Chief Medical Director (CMD), calling for greater transparency and adherence to established procedures.
The Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) branch at DUFUTH has submitted a formal petition to the House of Representatives Committee on Health, alleging that the ongoing process does not comply with the guidelines governing appointments in federal tertiary health institutions.
The tenure of the incumbent Chief Medical Director, Prof. Uzoma Agwu, is due to expire on 1 July 2026. However, union members contend that the succession process has proceeded without a public advertisement, candidate interviews, or the involvement of staff representatives.
According to the union, excluding workers from the process undermines transparency and risks eroding confidence among employees who are directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the hospital.
In a petition signed by the branch chairman and secretary, the union argued that adherence to due process is essential to preserving institutional stability and protecting the interests of workers.
The union stressed the importance of the position to the effective management of the hospital.
“The position of CMD is pivotal to the effective administration, clinical governance, and overall development of the hospital. Any process perceived as flawed or biased risks eroding trust, creating avoidable tension, and disrupting healthcare delivery,” the union stated.
MHWUN maintained that its intervention was not politically motivated but aimed at safeguarding staff morale, institutional integrity, and efficient service delivery.
The union called on the House of Representatives Committee on Health and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to intervene by reviewing the appointment process and ensuring that it is fair, transparent, and inclusive.
One of the workers said, “We remain committed to maintaining industrial harmony and supporting all lawful efforts aimed at strengthening the health sector. However, we also reserve the right to pursue all legitimate avenues available to us should these concerns not be urgently addressed.”
The union reiterated its commitment to industrial peace but warned that it would explore all lawful options if its concerns over the appointment process are not addressed promptly.
The dispute underscores growing concerns among health sector workers over governance, transparency, and stakeholder participation in leadership appointments within federal health institutions.
