Sharafadeen Alli, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Oyo State, has pledged to ensure timely payment of salaries and allowances to all workers if elected in the 2027 elections. This commitment comes as the state faces significant industrial actions from medical and dental officers, as well as lecturers at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH).

The strike by medical workers began on Monday, while LAUTECH lecturers initiated an indefinite strike on Thursday, leaving many patients in public hospitals without essential healthcare services. In a statement released by Bisi Oladele, the Director of Media and Publicity for Alli's campaign, he condemned the current governor, Seyi Makinde, for his perceived neglect of these pressing issues while he continues his presidential campaign.

Alli expressed deep concern over the ongoing strikes, particularly given the existing challenges within Oyo State's healthcare system, which already suffers from a shortage of medical personnel and inadequate facilities. He described the strikes as alarming, especially considering the plight of ordinary citizens who rely heavily on public healthcare.

"At a time when Oyo State Government hospitals are struggling with shortages of medical personnel, inadequate equipment and other operational challenges, the state can ill-afford the prolonged withdrawal of services by its doctors and dental officers," the statement noted.

The campaign organization highlighted that the demands from the medical professionals were reasonable, focusing on overdue allowances and the restoration of salaries for personnel who had been reassigned to the Ministry of Health. Alli criticized the governor for allowing these disputes to escalate, which he argues undermines the state's healthcare and educational services.

In his statement, Alli pointed out that the ongoing strikes have dire implications for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, children, and low-income families who depend on public health services. He accused Governor Makinde of prioritizing his political ambitions over the urgent needs of his constituents, stating, "Rather than remain at his duty post to resolve a crisis that has further crippled an already struggling public healthcare and education system, the governor is busy chasing the mirage of an illusory presidential ambition."

Alli's campaign organization has called for immediate contingency measures to ensure that patients requiring urgent medical attention are cared for during the strikes. They urged the striking medical personnel and lecturers to remain open to dialogue while pursuing their legitimate demands.

In conclusion, Alli assured that his administration would prioritize the welfare of healthcare professionals and the well-being of the citizens, promising a government that focuses on governance rather than political distractions. He emphasized the need for modern equipment and essential facilities in public hospitals to enhance healthcare delivery in Oyo State.