The Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) of Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State, has appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene over alleged non-compliance by the hospital management with directives on the payment of outstanding entitlements owed its members.
The union made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday and signed by the Medical and Health Union Chairman, Bukola Olajide; NUHAP Chairman, Babatunde Olugbodi; NASU Chairman, David Olobaniyi; and SSAUTHRIAI Chairman, Omobolanle Adeniran.
JOHESU called for urgent intervention over unpaid arrears, deteriorating infrastructure and what it described as threats to workers’ rights at the tertiary healthcare institution.
The union commended Makinde for his commitment to workers’ welfare, particularly his approval and release of funds to offset promotion arrears and minimum wage consequential adjustment arrears.
However, it said the impact of the governor’s intervention had been significantly reduced by what it described as administrative lapses on the part of the hospital management.
“The hospital management submitted to the government a computation representing only about 20% of the actual liability in respect of promotion arrears from January 2018 to September 2024, and arrears of minimum wage consequential adjustment,” the union said.
JOHESU therefore called for the lump-sum settlement of the outstanding balance.
It also expressed concern that a directive by the governor for the hospital management to provide a full account of funds received for the purpose over the past six years and the outstanding balance had yet to be complied with.
The union listed several outstanding demands, including payment of the 50 per cent balance of promotion arrears for October, November and December 2024; payment of 14 months’ salary arrears for recalled staff; and payment of 26 months’ salary arrears for disengaged but reinstated workers.
It also demanded payment of promotion arrears covering January 2025 to July 2026, as well as approval of an emergency capital intervention fund for the comprehensive renovation of dilapidated hospital structures and the procurement of modern medical equipment to replace obsolete facilities.
JOHESU warned that continued delays in addressing the issues were affecting staff morale and productivity, with potential consequences for the quality, safety and continuity of healthcare delivery at the teaching hospital.
“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 union said.
It also called on the governor to direct the hospital management to refrain from alleged witch-hunting, intimidation, harassment or reprisals against union leaders and members participating in the agitation.
The union stressed that employees should not be victimised for engaging in lawful union activities aimed at improving staff welfare and working conditions.
“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,” JOHESU said.
The union further urged the governor to authorise the release of the outstanding 80 per cent balance of the funds due, approve lump-sum payment of the 2016/2017 half-salary arrears, settle other pending entitlements and provide emergency funding for infrastructure renewal.
JOHESU also appealed for measures to protect its members as they continue to advocate lawfully for improved working conditions and the payment of outstanding benefits.
