The Benue State chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has warned that strict measures allegedly taken against striking nurses at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi, could worsen and prolong the ongoing industrial action. The union said intimidation and punitive steps by hospital management may derail ongoing efforts to resolve the dispute peacefully.

In a statement released on Monday, the state chairman of NANNM, Tahav Kershio, criticised what he described as threats, intimidation and sanctions against nurses. He said such actions were outdated and counterproductive, especially at a time when dialogue was needed. According to him, newly recruited nurses are yet to receive their salaries, while older staff are being paid only in part.

Kershio further alleged that some nurses were being threatened with dismissal, delayed confirmation and other disciplinary actions capable of escalating tensions. He revealed that over 100 nurses are owed between two and three months’ salary arrears covering 2024 and 2025, while promotion arrears for 2023 remain unpaid. He claimed that affected nurses received about ₦120,000 instead of the approved ₦750,000 and other benefits.

The NANNM chairman stressed that the union has no political motive and remains committed to the welfare of the hospital and patients. He called on the Benue State Government to urgently intervene, resolve outstanding welfare issues across BSUTH and other health boards, and restore industrial harmony to prevent further disruption in healthcare services.