Doctors Strike Shuts Down Cross River Government Hospitals

CALABAR, Oct 27, (THEWILL) – A three-day warning strike by the National Association of Government Employed Doctors (NAGEDN) has shut down public hospitals in Cross River State.

The strike started today, October 27, 2010.

THEWILL gathered that medical doctors embarked on the strike to demand an improvement in the state’s health care system and also to press for better pay.

THEWILL checks at the General Hospital, Calabar revealed that there were no doctors at work today.

A statement from the doctors on October 18, 2010 had warned the Cross River State government of the strike which it said would begin on October 27, 2010.

Cross River State Chairman of the doctors’ union, Dr. Benedict Ajogbor said all government employees working in General Hospitals in the state have vowed to comply with the directive to strike.

“So far the strike is a complete success and we are in touch with all our members across the state. Reports indicate a total compliance. “We are demanding improved pay package through the implementation CONMESS and employment of more doctors in the state,’’ Dr. Ajogbor said.

He expressed frustration with the administration following its refusal to engage the doctors’ union in meaning negotiations adding that the union had earlier issued a 21-day ultimatum to government to begin the process of implementing its demands.