Medical doctors in Ondo State, under the umbrella of the National Association of Government General and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), have declared a three-day warning strike set to begin on Monday, July 14, 2025.
The industrial action is a response to what the doctors describe as the state government’s “gross neglect” of the health sector and the welfare of medical professionals.
In a joint statement issued by the state chapter chairman, Dr. Richard Obe, and secretary, Dr. Adekunle Owolabi, the doctors outlined multiple grievances, including severe staff shortages that have left some general hospitals with only one doctor serving an entire local government area. They also condemned an abrupt increase in taxation implemented since April 2025 without prior consultation with medical personnel.
Key unresolved issues fueling the strike include the non-payment of salaries and allowances for eight newly recruited doctors employed since October 2024, unpaid hazard allowances covering October to December 2023 and January 2024, outstanding promotion arrears from June to December 2024, and general salary shortfalls for other members.
The association emphasised that these problems persist despite a 14-working-day ultimatum issued to the state government, which expired on July 1 without resolution.
The doctors have demanded immediate government action, including the recruitment of additional medical personnel, full payment of owed salaries and allowances, reversal of the new tax policy, and settlement of promotion arrears.
They warned that failure to address these demands during the warning strike could lead to an indefinite shutdown of health services, further straining the state’s already fragile healthcare system.
While reaffirming their commitment to patient care, the NAGGMDP stressed that working under current conditions is unsustainable.
The state government has yet to issue an official response as the warning strike deadline approaches.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
