Health workers at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, have commenced an indefinite strike over unresolved welfare issues and unmet demands. The workers, under various unions, say they can no longer continue working under poor conditions, stressing that the management has failed to address concerns ranging from salary arrears to shortages of essential equipment. They explained that several negotiations had taken place, but no meaningful progress was made, forcing them to withdraw their services.

According to the unions, the strike is necessary to push for better working conditions and ensure that staff members are treated fairly. They noted that the pressure on the hospital system has become unbearable, with many workers overstretched due to manpower shortages. The unions insist that the hospital management and government must act quickly to restore normalcy by meeting their demands.

The strike has already disrupted key hospital services, including outpatient consultations, laboratory tests, and some emergency operations. Patients and their families expressed fear that the industrial action may worsen access to healthcare, especially for those requiring urgent attention. Many appealed for a quick resolution to prevent a total collapse of services at the tertiary health institution.

UCH management, however, urged the workers to reconsider their stance, saying efforts are ongoing to address their concerns. The hospital appealed to the government to intervene and help bring an end to the strike so that normal medical operations can resume for the benefit of the public.