Ondo State Government Addresses Salary Disparity and Medical Strike Issues

The Ondo State Government has taken steps to address the salary disparity between the state and other states, as well as the ongoing industrial action by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the University of Medical Science Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH) in Ondo.

The state’s Head of Service (HoS), Bayo Philip, recently made this announcement, highlighting the government’s commitment to resolving these issues.

According to Philip, a committee has been established to look into the salary disparity issue, and a report is expected to be submitted soon.

Meanwhile, the government has already taken action to address the concerns of striking doctors and interns.

The striking doctors have received two months’ worth of hazard allowance as previously agreed upon, while interns have been paid the entire four months of arrears owed to them.

Philip emphasized that the state government is dedicated to the welfare of all categories of workers in Ondo State.

He also urged workers to refrain from politicizing issues related to the public service.

In a statement released on Thursday, Philip acknowledged that the salary disparity and the strike by the ARD at UNIMEDTH are significant issues that the government is actively working to resolve.

He stated, “While it is the right of the association to champion the cause for the welfare of its members, it must be stated that the fact of this the particular case must not be misrepresented to the public.”

The HoS reiterated that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa inherited both the medical hazard allowance and salary arrears of interns, which include House Officers, Nurses, Pharmacists, and others.

He assured that the government has not only taken concrete steps to address these issues but has already commenced payment of the arrears.

The Ondo State Government is making strides in addressing the salary disparity and the ongoing industrial action at UNIMEDTH.

The state’s commitment to the welfare of its workers remains a top priority, and efforts are being made to resolve these issues in a timely and fair manner.