JUST IN: Industrial action looms in Ondo as doctors issue strike ultimatum

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Medical doctors in Ondo State have threatened to embark on a three-day warning strike beginning Monday, July 14, 2025, over what they describe as the continued neglect of the state’s healthcare system and the poor treatment of health workers.

The threat was issued by the state chapter of the National Association of Government General and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), a key affiliate of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).

In a statement signed by the state chairman, Dr. Richard Obe, and the secretary, Dr. Adekunle Owolabi, the doctors accused the Ondo State Government of ignoring repeated appeals to address the alarming challenges facing public healthcare delivery and the welfare of medical personnel.

According to them, several letters sent to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, including a formal 14-working-day ultimatum that expired on July 1, have been completely disregarded.

A major concern, according to the association, is the worsening shortage of medical personnel in government hospitals.

The statement noted that in some local government areas, only one doctor is available to serve the entire population, adding that the situation has pushed many of their members to the brink of exhaustion and burnout.

The group also decried what it described as an unjustified increase in their taxes since April, which it said was imposed without prior notice or consultation.

The doctors called on the state government to act swiftly to avert a total breakdown of health services across Ondo State.