The Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners, Ota Zone, Ogun State, Dr. Oluseye Olufunso, has urgently called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to take immediate action to end the ongoing indefinite strike by doctors in state-owned hospitals. This strike has significantly impacted residents seeking medical care, especially those suffering from various illnesses.
During a recent address to journalists at a free medical outreach event in Sango Ota, Olufunso highlighted the growing burden on residents who are already facing economic challenges. He emphasized the critical need for intervention by the state government to restore healthcare services.
The Nigerian Medical Association’s state chapter initiated the strike on August 3, protesting against unequal remuneration and the government’s failure to adjust their CONMESS salary structure, as has been done in other regions. This situation has prompted many healthcare professionals to seek better-paying positions in neighboring states, exacerbating the healthcare crisis in Ogun State.
Olufunso urged the governor to promptly resolve the doctors’ demands to ensure the stability of the healthcare sector. He stressed the importance of prioritizing healthcare in governance, advocating for improved working conditions and welfare for medical staff.
The recent outreach event aimed to provide free medical care to over 500 residents, focusing on the significance of regular health checks for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and dental issues. Olufunso remarked on the urgency of raising awareness about these health concerns, noting that neglect can lead to severe health consequences, including sudden collapses and fatalities.
He concluded by reiterating that prioritizing health, along with making healthcare services more accessible and economically feasible, is essential for the well-being of the community, particularly for the poor and vulnerable populations in Ogun State.
