LAUTECH Doctors Issue Ultimatum to Oyo State Government Over Unresolved Demands

The Association of Resident Doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital in Ogbomoso has given the Oyo State Government and the hospital management an ultimatum to address their outstanding welfare demands by August 28, 2026, or face the resumption of a suspended industrial action. The doctors had initially suspended their strike on June 27, allowing an eight-week window for the government and hospital management to resolve their concerns, which include the full implementation of the Medical Residency Training Fund, the implementation of a new Professional Allowance table, the payment of minimum wage arrears, and the urgent recruitment of resident doctors and other critical staff. According to the association's President, Dr. Adedapo Mustapha, and General Secretary, Dr. John Stephen, the decision to suspend the strike was made in good faith to maintain industrial harmony and support the progress of the institution. However, with several critical issues still unresolved as the agreed period draws to a close, the doctors are threatening to resume their industrial action. The welfare situation at the hospital has become increasingly difficult, with the doctors stating that their demands are neither excessive nor unreasonable, as several of the welfare packages have been implemented in other healthcare institutions for years. The association has also raised concerns over the severe shortage of medical personnel at the hospital, which has left the available doctors overworked and overstretched. The doctors warned that the manpower crisis could have implications for patient care and safety, emphasizing that the welfare of healthcare workers is intrinsically linked to patient safety, quality of care, and the sustainability of healthcare services. The association appealed to the Oyo State Governor and relevant government authorities to urgently intervene and resolve the issues, stating that their preference remains constructive engagement, dialogue, and a mutually beneficial resolution. However, the doctors warned that their patience has limits, and if the outstanding demands remain unresolved, they will resume their suspended industrial action effective August 28, 2026.