Members of the Joint Health Sector Union at the Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, have tabled a fresh list of unpaid entitlements, calling for immediate and full settlement by the Oyo State Government.
The demands were contained in a joint statement issued on Monday in Ibadan by the leadership of the union’s affiliate bodies.
The statement was signed by Bukola Olajide of the Medical and Health Workers Union, Babatunde Olugbodi of NUHAP, David Olobaniyi of NASU and Omobolanle Adeniran of SSAUTHRIAI.
While appreciating Governor Seyi Makinde for releasing funds to address staff welfare, the workers insisted that several outstanding payments remain unsettled and require urgent attention.
The union outlined its core demands as follows:
Payment of the remaining 50 per cent of promotion arrears for October, November and December 2024; clearance of 14 months’ salary arrears owed to recalled staff; settlement of 26 months’ salary arrears for staff who were disengaged and later reinstated; payment of promotion arrears spanning January 2025 to July 2026; and settlement of the 2016/2017 half-salary arrears.
Beyond salary issues, JOHESU also asked for approval of an emergency capital intervention to renovate collapsing structures within the hospital and to procure modern medical equipment to replace outdated ones.
The workers stressed that their agitation is lawful and centred on welfare and service delivery.
“We, therefore, call on Governor Makinde to affirm and protect the inalienable right of staff to make legitimate demands for the payment of earned entitlements and improved working conditions through lawful union activities,” the statement read.
They further demanded protection from any form of retaliation over their agitation.
“We also call on the governor to direct the hospital management to refrain from any form of witch-hunting, intimidation, harassment or reprisal against union leaders and members, and ensure that no staff member is victimised, directly or indirectly, for his or her participation in the ongoing lawful agitation for staff welfare,” the union said.
According to JOHESU, creating a safe atmosphere for dialogue is critical to industrial peace.
“A safe and enabling environment for social dialogue is essential for industrial harmony and sustainable healthcare delivery. We remain committed to saving lives and upholding our professional oath,” the workers stated.
The union then urged the governor to take direct action on their financial claims.
“We respectfully urge His Excellency to authorise the direct release of the outstanding 80% balance, approve lump-sum payment of the 2016/2017 half-salary arrears, settle all other pending entitlements, and provide emergency funding for infrastructure renewal, while ensuring our members are protected as they lawfully advocate for their rights,” JOHESU stated.
