Doctors under the Lagos State Government have begun a three-day warning strike over what they describe as illegal deductions from their salaries. The Medical Guild, which represents all medical and dental practitioners employed by the state, says the deductions were made without prior notice.
In a statement signed by the Guild’s chairman, Dr Japhet Olugbogi, and secretary, Dr Adekunle Akinade, the association said an earlier agreement had been reached with the government to revert to previous pay structures following consultations. A joint committee was also set up to resolve outstanding issues.
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However, the doctors say they were shocked to discover that the state treasury implemented a pay cut in July, describing the move as a breach of trust. They argue that the decision comes at a time when many states are doing more to retain healthcare professionals amid economic hardship and rising emigration of medical staff.
Following an emergency assembly attended by over 380 doctors, the Guild has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Lagos State Government to meet its demands, including the reversal of deductions and payment of arrears to consultants. Failure to do so, it warned, will result in an indefinite strike action.
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