Medical doctors in Lagos State public service on Monday commenced a three-day warning strike to protest “illegal and disrespectful” salary deductions by the Treasury Office, the Medical Guild announced . Beginning at 8 a.m. and running through 8 a.m. Thursday, the action follows failed conciliation efforts initiated after an initial round of unauthorized cuts in April, which were briefly reversed before recurring in July without notice .
At a press briefing, Guild Chairman Dr. Japhet Olugbogi accused the state government of reneging on an agreement to maintain the status quo while a six-member conciliation committee deliberated. He demanded immediate reversal of the July deductions and full payment of 12-month CONMESS arrears owed to honorary consultants at LASUTH, warning that an indefinite strike would follow a 21-day ultimatum if demands remain unmet .
The planned walkout threatens to disrupt outpatient services, surgeries, and emergency care across state hospitals, prompting concern from patient-rights groups. Lagos State Government urged calm, stating it values healthcare professionals and is reviewing the Guild’s grievances in good faith, though it stopped short of promising immediate action .
Health-economics experts warn that prolonged industrial action could exacerbate an already fragile health sector, driving patients to expensive private facilities and widening health-access disparities. They call on both sides to expedite negotiations and consider third-party mediation to restore trust and prevent service gaps .
