Imo health workers threaten to embark on indefinite strike over welfare neglect
Imo State Health Workers Prepare for Indefinite Strike Over Welfare Issues
Health workers in Imo State, represented by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations, have announced plans for an indefinite strike, citing alleged neglect of their welfare by the administration of Governor Hope Uzodinma.
In a press statement released Tuesday, the union leaders, including State Chairman Comrade Uche Okafor, indicated that multiple attempts to negotiate with state government officials have failed to produce satisfactory outcomes.
The union claims that persistent disregard for workers’ welfare has left them with no choice but to pursue a strike as a final recourse. They have been communicating their concerns to the governor through the Ministry of Health and the Office of the Head of Service, yet have received no meaningful engagement.
Key issues highlighted by the union include discrepancies in the state payroll system. They argue that the salary designations—HWSS, CSS, and HAPSS—do not align with the approved Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS). This misalignment is said to lead to stagnation and unjustified pay reductions for health workers, exacerbating existing financial difficulties.
As part of their grievance process, the union issued a 21-day ultimatum on November 12, which concluded on December 3 without significant governmental response.
The workers have outlined several core demands, including:
- Immediate restoration of the CONHESS for all health workers without discrimination, inclusive of allowances for specialists, on-call duties, clinical duties, teaching, hazard pay, and rural postings.
- Full implementation of the approved CONHESS and settlement of outstanding arrears from September 2025 to the present.
- Harmonization of financial effects regarding promotions of IMSUTH staff.
- Addressing inequalities in notional placement for certain employees while others from the same promotions do not receive the same benefits.
Additionally, the union is calling for improved working conditions and the resolution of welfare issues, including hazard allowances.
The planned strike underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding labor conditions and the treatment of healthcare professionals in the state.
