Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has criticised the seven-day warning strike declared by the Edo State Council of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), describing it as ill-timed, unpatriotic, and wholly unjustified.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo said the strike began while meaningful negotiations between the Union and the state government were ongoing.
He noted that the Union leadership has been in constant engagement with his administration over their demands.
According to the governor, many of the issues raised by the Union were inherited from the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki. Okpebholo emphasised that his government has demonstrated genuine commitment to resolving these concerns in a phased, transparent, and responsible manner.
He highlighted that one of the Union’s key demands the renovation of the Doctors’ Quarters was already receiving government attention, alongside other welfare-related matters.
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“It is therefore shocking and disappointing that the Union would hastily declare a strike, claiming government insensitivity, when the present administration has shown good faith, open-mindedness, and a proactive resolve to improve the health sector,” the governor said.
Okpebholo accused the Union leadership of undermining ongoing dialogue and acting in bad faith.
He suggested that the strike appears motivated by personal financial interests within the Union, putting Edo citizens especially those in urgent need of medical attention at risk.
“Such actions betray the noble principles of the medical profession, particularly the Hippocratic Oath, which prioritizes the preservation of human life.
No responsible government can allow a few individuals to hold the lives of citizens hostage for personal gain,” he added.
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The governor reiterated that the Edo State government remains committed to dialogue and partnership with all health sector stakeholders to ensure industrial harmony and improved service delivery, but will not tolerate actions that jeopardize citizens’ health under any guise.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
