The Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital (LTH) has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene in the non-compliance of the hospital management with his directives on the payment of several arrears due to union members. In a statement, JOHESU commended Governor Makinde for his commitment to workers' welfare, exemplified by his approval and release of funds to offset promotion arrears and minimum wage consequential adjustment arrears. However, the union expressed deep concern over the impact of the Governor's intervention being substantially diminished due to administrative lapses.
JOHESU noted that the hospital management submitted 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. Consequently, only the understated sum was released and disbursed, leaving an outstanding balance of nearly 80%. The union stressed that the full computation of the 2016/2017 half-salary arrears has now been concluded and submitted to the Office of the Governor for consideration. JOHESU respectfully requested a lump-sum settlement of the outstanding balance.
The union listed other outstanding demands, including the payment of the 50% 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 staff. Additionally, JOHESU requested the payment of arrears of the 2025 promotion from January 2025 to July 2026 and the approval of an emergency intervention capital fund for the comprehensive renovation of dilapidated hospital structures and the procurement of modern medical equipment.
JOHESU cautioned that continued delay in addressing these issues is eroding staff morale and productivity, with adverse implications for the quality, safety, and continuity of healthcare service delivery at the tertiary facility. The union stated that it is essential 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.
In line with international labour standards, including ILO Conventions 87 and 98 on freedom of association and the right to organise and bargain collectively, JOHESU called on Governor Makinde to direct the hospital management to refrain from any form of witch-hunting, intimidation, harassment, or reprisal against union leaders and members. The union also requested that the Governor ensure that no staff member is victimized for participating in the ongoing lawful agitation for staff welfare and improved working conditions.
JOHESU emphasized that a safe and enabling environment for social dialogue is essential for industrial harmony and sustainable healthcare delivery. The union remains committed to saving lives and upholding its professional oath. The union respectfully urged Governor Makinde to authorize 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.
The statement was jointly signed by Comrade Olajide Bukola Rebecca, Medical and Health Union Chairman, Comrade Olugbodi David Babatunde, NUHAP Chairman, Comrade Olobaniyi David .O – NASU Chairman, and Comrade Adeniran Omobolanle O – SSAUTHRIAI Chairman. The union's appeal to Governor Makinde highlights the need for urgent intervention to address the welfare concerns of healthcare workers at LAUTECH.
Key points
- JOHESU urges Governor Makinde to intervene in LAUTECH management's non-compliance with workers' arrear payments.
- The union requests a lump-sum settlement of the outstanding balance of nearly 80% of promotion arrears and minimum wage consequential adjustment arrears.
- JOHESU cautions that continued delay in addressing these issues is eroding staff morale and productivity, with adverse implications for healthcare service delivery.
