Health workers at the Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, are appealing to Governor Seyi Makinde for immediate intervention regarding unpaid salary arrears and deteriorating infrastructure at the facility. The Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) made this call during a statement issued on Monday, highlighting the management's failure to comply with the governor's directives on payment issues.

The union, represented by its leaders including Bukola Olajide, Babatunde Olugbodi, David Olobaniyi, and Omobolanle Adeniran, emphasized the need for urgent action to resolve the outstanding arrears that have been affecting staff morale and productivity. They acknowledged the governor's previous efforts to improve workers' welfare, particularly his approval of funds to address promotion arrears and minimum wage adjustments. However, they expressed frustration over what they described as significant administrative lapses that have hindered the realization of these benefits.

JOHESU revealed that the hospital management submitted only a fraction—about 20%—of the actual liabilities related to promotion arrears dating back to January 2018, as well as minimum wage consequential adjustments. The union is now calling for a lump-sum settlement of the outstanding balance to alleviate the financial burdens on its members.

In their statement, the union outlined several key demands, including:

• Payment of the 50% balance of promotion arrears for the last quarter of 2024.
• Settlement of 14 months salary arrears for recalled staff.
• Payment of 26 months salary arrears for reinstated staff.
• Approval for an emergency capital fund for the renovation of dilapidated hospital structures.
• Procurement of modern medical equipment to replace outdated ones.

The union warned that the ongoing delays in addressing these issues are adversely affecting healthcare delivery at the tertiary institution. They stressed the importance of complying with international labor standards and the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to organize and advocate for improved working conditions.

JOHESU also urged Governor Makinde to protect union members from any form of intimidation or harassment by the hospital management, emphasizing the need for a safe environment for dialogue to foster industrial harmony. The union remains committed to advocating for the rights of its members while ensuring quality healthcare services for the community.

In conclusion, the health workers are calling for the governor to authorize the immediate release of the outstanding 80% balance of salary arrears, settle all pending entitlements, and provide emergency funding for infrastructure improvements to enhance the working conditions at LAUTECH. They believe that these actions are essential for maintaining high standards of healthcare delivery in Oyo State.