Doctors and other health workers at Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) staged a peaceful protest on Tuesday over unpaid salaries dating back 21 months, owed by the previous administration. The protest, held on the hospital premises in Aba, highlighted the dire financial situation faced by the hospital staff amidst economic challenges.
Chairman of the Medical and Health Workers Association Union, ABSUTH branch, Comrade Chukwuemeka Ariwodo, voiced the frustrations of the workers, emphasizing their commitment to duty despite the prolonged non-payment. He urged Governor Alex Otti to fulfill promises made to clear the outstanding salary arrears without further delay.
“We are still expecting our 21 months’ arrears. If by the end of today, the Government fails to pay us, this demonstration will continue until they pay us. We don’t know what’s delaying our payment,” stated Comrade Ariwodo during the protest.
Over 2,000 Patients in Abia State Benefit from the NDDC Free Healthcare Project.
Dr. Isaiah Abali, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia State branch, expressed dismay at the neglect of health workers, despite their sacrifices. He appealed to Governor Alex Otti to prioritize the issue and ensure prompt payment of salaries, emphasizing that timely payment is crucial to maintaining morale and productivity among workers.
“The easiest thing you can do for a worker is to pay him his salary. That’s the most honest earning,” Dr. Abali remarked, urging the government to take immediate action to alleviate the financial strain faced by ABSUTH workers.
The ongoing protest underscores the growing tension among health workers who have endured financial hardship due to the prolonged salary arrears. The NMA reiterated its commitment to peaceful resolution but warned that continued non-payment could escalate tensions among the already distressed workers.
“We’re not political. We’re only saying pay us our salary,” Dr. Abali emphasized, urging swift government intervention to prevent further discontent among ABSUTH staff.
