…Outgoing Official’s Tenure Sparks Protests
…Unions Warn of Indefinite Strike Over Controversial Policy
…Union Vows Resistance, Threatens Strike
Health workers at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Abeokuta, under the Joint Action Committee of all Unions (JAC), rallied on Wednesday to mark the exit of Mr. David Folarin Akaraiwe, the outgoing Acting Head of Department Administration.
The celebration, organized by the Senior Staff Association of University Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes, and Allied Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI), followed what the union described as a tumultuous tenure marked by controversial salary reduction policies.
…Contentious Policy Sparks Outrage
Speaking at the rally, SSAUTHRIAI Chairman and JAC leader, Comrade Bashir Ayobamiji Obabiyi, criticized Akaraiwe’s administration for proposing unprecedented salary reductions targeting specific staff levels.
“The policy attempted to downgrade CONHESS level 15 to 14, level 13 to 12, and Health Attendants upgraded to level 6 back to level 3. This was not just unfair but a direct attack on workers’ welfare,” Obabiyi said.
The union rejected the policy and issued a 15-day ultimatum to management to withdraw it, describing it as discriminatory and designed to destabilize the workforce.
…Rally Turns Tense Amid Assault Allegations
The rally, initially peaceful, took a dramatic turn when supporters of the outgoing administrator reportedly confronted union members, allegedly harassing them and involving security operatives.
A journalist was also reportedly assaulted by Mr. Isqilu Akanbi, Assistant Director of Administration, during the commotion. Security operatives allegedly attempted to arrest union leaders, further escalating tensions.
“We condemn this blatant abuse of power and harassment. Security operatives have no business meddling in internal union matters,” Obabiyi said.
…Union Vows Resistance, Threatens Strike
Obabiyi reaffirmed the union’s resolve to oppose the salary policy and protect workers’ rights. He warned that any attempt to enforce the policy would result in an indefinite strike and the shutdown of the medical center.
“We will not be intimidated or discouraged. We will continue to fight for our rights and better working conditions,” he assured union members.
The union also called on hospital management to prioritize effective leadership and foster harmonious relations with staff, urging them to focus on policies that enhance employee welfare rather than diminish it.
The Federal Medical Centre management is yet to respond to the union’s demands or address the allegations of harassment during the rally.
