JOHESU suspends strike after Lagos Assembly intervention
Lagos Health Workers Suspend Strike Following State Assembly Intervention
The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) in Lagos State has lifted its strike after intervention from the Lagos State House of Assembly, the union announced over the weekend.
In a statement issued by Lagos State Secretary Kabiawu Gbolahan, the decision to suspend the strike came after extensive discussions with various stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC). The union highlighted the “timely and decisive intervention” of the state legislature as a crucial factor in this resolution.
“The leadership of the Joint Health Sector Unions has resolved to suspend the ongoing strike action, based on assurances received from the Lagos State House of Assembly,” Gbolahan stated. He emphasized that tangible commitments were made to address all concerns raised by the union, prompting immediate resumption of work across health facilities in Lagos.
Furthermore, JOHESU stressed that members should not face repercussions for their participation in the strike. “No member of JOHESU should be victimized for taking part in the industrial action, as this assurance was clearly given by the Lagos State House of Assembly,” Gbolahan added.
The Lagos State Government confirmed the agreement reached with JOHESU following a high-level meeting aimed at resolving the dispute. “The Lagos State Government and the Joint Health Sector Unions have reached an agreement leading to the immediate suspension of the strike previously embarked upon by the union,” the government said in a statement.
The government described the discussions as “frank and constructive,” with a shared commitment to safeguarding public health and restoring normal operations in healthcare facilities. It reiterated its intention to address the union’s demands within established regulatory frameworks and provided timelines for resolving outstanding issues.
According to the government, JOHESU’s leadership communicated the decision to suspend the strike after consulting with its members, prioritizing public health and industrial harmony. Both parties also agreed to maintain dialogue and open channels of communication to ensure adherence to the agreements made.
The state government acknowledged the vital role of allied health professionals and reiterated its commitment to enhancing working conditions and equitable treatment within the healthcare system.
“Healthcare workers are expected to resume their duties promptly, as consultations continue to ensure that the resolutions translate into lasting outcomes,” the statement concluded. The Lagos State Government expressed gratitude to residents for their patience throughout the strike and assured the public of uninterrupted access to quality healthcare services moving forward.
