The Resident doctors at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) have commenced an indefinite strike following unresolved welfare and workplace issues with the hospital management.
The decision was reached at an Emergency General Meeting (EGM) of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), OAUTHC, held virtually on June 20, 2026, according to a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, jointly signed by the President, Dr Martins, Jesunbo J.; General Secretary, Dr Oladipo, Toyyeb B.; and Public Relations Officer, Dr Oaihimire, Joel I.
The association stated that the congress reviewed developments following the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum issued earlier to the management over welfare-related concerns affecting its members.
According to the communiqué, members also assessed the management’s response to the association’s demands and the outcomes of engagements and interventions by stakeholders during the ultimatum period.
The doctors alleged that the management’s official response dated June 17, 2026, referenced CMD.25A/VOL.III/377, did not accurately reflect the facts, agreements reached and the current state of discussions between both parties.
Congress, however, acknowledged the reversal of the identity card attachment policy and progress made in processing members’ upgrades following engagements with management.
he association also noted the exemption of newly employed staff from payment for identity cards but maintained that identity cards remain institutional property and that costs associated with their production, rebranding or reissuance should be borne by the institution.
The doctors further observed that employees recruited in 2022 and regularised in 2024 were excluded from the exemption despite not receiving identity cards at the time of their initial employment.
The association expressed dissatisfaction with the proposed adjustments to call-duty meal provisions, stating that the measures failed to adequately cater for all doctors officially on call across eligible units and departments.
Congress also lamented what it described as a housing crisis affecting resident doctors and the declining availability of hospital accommodation.
It noted that several residential units at the Eleyele Urban Comprehensive Health Centre have remained vacant for months after resident doctors were displaced from the facility.
According to the communiqué, the available housing units should be allocated to resident doctors to improve staff welfare, facilitate prompt emergency response, enhance patient care and strengthen residency training.