Olabisi Onabanjo University Doctors Initiate Warning Strike Over Unpaid Allowances
The Association of Resident Doctors at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, Ogun State, has launched a 10-day warning strike to address several pressing issues, including the non-payment of revised professional allowances, severe staff shortages, delayed training funds, and worsening welfare conditions.
In a decisive move, the association has imposed a fine of NOK 50,000 on any member who does not adhere to the strike directive, showcasing their commitment to unified action.
This industrial action was decided upon during the association’s second quarterly general meeting, held on Monday at the Adebola Adegunwa Hall in Sagamu City. According to a communiqué released after the meeting, the resident doctors expressed serious concerns regarding the Ogun State government’s failure to implement and pay the revised allowances for professionals and specialists.
Despite previously issuing a 14-day ultimatum to the government, the doctors noted that no memorandum of understanding was signed, and there has been no substantial commitment related to the payment of the revised allowances. The association’s President, Dr. John Omotoso, emphasized these shortcomings in the forthcoming communiqué.
The statement articulated profound dissatisfaction over the delayed disbursement of the 2026 Resident Training Fund, which has already been approved by the Ogun State government. The doctors also highlighted critical staff shortages that have led to excessive workloads, increased burnout rates, and prolonged working hours due to understaffing issues within the healthcare sector.
Other significant concerns raised include security lapses, theft, and robbery occurring within the hospital premises, which jeopardize the safety of both staff and patients. Additionally, inadequate accommodation in call rooms and the poor quality and insufficient provision of meals for resident doctors were also cited as ongoing issues needing immediate attention.
After extensive discussions, the association has unanimously decided to proceed with the planned strike, demanding the prompt payment of the 2026 Medical Training Fund and the revised professional and specialist allowances to be reflected in the July 2026 salary payments. They have also called for a thorough overhaul of the hospital’s security infrastructure, including enhanced lighting and fortified perimeter fencing.
Alongside the push for improved security measures, the doctors have requested urgent renovations and improvements to call rooms and accommodation facilities, as well as enhancements to the quality and quantity of meals provided to trainee doctors. The association has made it clear that any member who disregards the strike instructions will face a financial penalty.
In anticipation of developments, an emergency general meeting is scheduled to take place following the completion of the warning strike, during which the association will assess the situation and determine the next steps moving forward.
