Medical doctors employed by the Edo Health Management Agency (HMA) have commenced a two-day warning strike, effective Thursday, in response to the controversial appointment of a new Executive Secretary for the agency.
The strike, organized by the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCA), Edo HMA branch, centers around the appointment of Nelson Tenebe, who is reportedly connected to a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress in the state.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the decision to strike followed an emergency general meeting held on January 29. In a letter addressed to Governor Monday Okpebholo, which was obtained by NAN, the association expressed its discontent with the ongoing situation, highlighting that their grievances had not been adequately addressed despite previous discussions.
The letter, signed by association leaders Dr. Clement Ikponmwen and Dr. Osaronse Aghimien, noted, “Following the expiration of the ultimatum issued on January 7, and the subsequent meetings we had with you sir, we want to appreciate Your Excellency’s kind approval of Dr. Christopher Eigbe Ehiagwina as the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive of the HMA during the last meeting we had with you on January 22.”
The doctors expressed disappointment that the governor’s directive regarding the appointment had not been implemented, stating, “Unfortunately sir, your directive has not been effected up until now, as though your instructions are being undermined.”
This lack of action has reportedly caused significant unrest among the medical staff, who had initially believed that the governor’s instructions would be promptly followed.
The association’s letter further indicated that the warning strike would commence at midnight on Thursday if their demands were not met. As a result of the strike, healthcare services across Edo State have begun to feel the impact, with public hospitals reducing their operations. Non-emergency cases are being turned away, leaving many patients and their families frustrated by the abrupt disruptions in care. Reports indicate that some individuals are now seeking alternatives, including private hospitals and traditional medicine.
The situation remains fluid as the doctors continue their strike, awaiting a resolution to their concerns regarding the leadership of the HMA.
