…As govt promises to address issues
The Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi has announced the suspension of the strike action by its Resident Doctors with full clinical services resuming immediately.
Confirming the suspension of the industrial action, the Chairman, Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Kawen Pededoo said the Benue State Government and the Resident Doctors have reached an agreement to end the strike.
The Hospital in a statement issued on Monday by the Head of Public Relations & Protocol, Tsenzughul Moses said the Management of the Hospital and the Association of Resident Doctors, BSUTH Chapter have successfully resolved issues and the union has officially called off its strike.
According to the statement, management of the hospital expressed gratitude to the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Government Negotiating Team, stakeholders, and individuals who contributed to the resolution of the matter.
The Association of Resident Doctors was also commended for their cooperation and dedication to service while the Hospital reassures the public of its commitment to delivering quality healthcare. It appreciated the patience and support shown by the public during the period.
The doctors who have been on strike for about three months, were demanding payment of 18 months’ salary arrears, among other issues. In a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both parties to resolve the outstanding issues that led to the strike, government acknowledged the eighteen months’ salary arrears owed to the Resident Doctors and commits to liquidating the full amount within six weeks.
The agreement also addresses other key issues, including pension and tax deductions, renovation of doctors’ quarters, and review of entry points for residency programs.
“The state government has agreed to pay the January 2026 salaries within 72 hours of the strike suspension and not to victimize any striking doctors”.
Meanwhile, the Resident Doctors pledged to maintain industrial peace and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services during the implementation of the MoU even as a Joint Monitoring Committee will oversee the implementation of the agreement and resolve any emerging issues.
“The MoU is valid until all obligations are fully discharged within the stipulated period, and any disputes arising from its interpretation will be resolved amicably through dialogue and mutual consultation”
Those who signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of the Benue State Government include Barrister Deborah Aber, Secretary to the State Government; Dr. Paul Ogwuche, Commissioner for Health and Human Services; Professor Orkughga Malu, Board Chairman of Benue State University Teaching Hospital; and Dr. Stephen Hwande, Chief Medical Director of the hospital. On the other hand, the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) was represented by Dr. Kawen Pededoo, ARD President; Dr. Msonter, ARD Secretary; and the Caucus Leader, North Central Caucus, Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Dr. Fanen Dogoh.
