07/10/2024
KADUNA STATE NURSES'S' STRIKE: DEFIANCE IN THE FACE OF INTIMIDATION
The ongoing nurses' strike in Kaduna State has taken a dramatic turn as the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital (BDTH) management escalates its intimidation tactics. Despite the "no work, no pay" policy threat, nurses remain resolute, prompting the management to issue a new directive targeting senior staff.
The nurses' strike, which began 5 days ago seeks to address long-standing grievances, including poor working conditions, inadequate staffing, and unpaid benefits. The Kaduna State Government's failure to address these concerns has led to widespread frustration among healthcare workers.
In a bid to break the strike, the BDTH management has issued a circular ordering all level 14 and above staff to resume work immediately or face sanctions. This move is seen as a desperate attempt to divide the nurses' ranks and undermine their collective action.
The nurses have vowed to continue their strike, undeterred by the management's threats. "We will not be intimidated, "Our demands are legitimate, and we will not back down until they are met."
A call has been made for level 14 and above to resume work, citing the Kaduna State Civil Service Rule. We urge you to stand firm and reject this attempt to divide and conquer.
This move is a blatant attempt to undermine the ongoing strike and break the nurses' unity. By targeting senior staff, the management aims to create a rift among nurses and weaken the strike.
The Kaduna State Civil Service Rule does not supersede your fundamental rights as workers.
Your right to strike is constitutionally guaranteed, and no rule can take that away.
I therefore call on all Level 14 and above nurses to:
1. Reject the management's call to resume work.
2. Decline any form of meeting with the management henceforth
2. Stand in solidarity with your colleagues.
3. Continue to demand better working conditions, adequate staffing, and payment of outstanding benefits.
Our collective action has brought attention to the long-standing issues plaguing the healthcare sector. Don't let the management's tactics undermine our progress.
The Nigerian Nurses Association and healthcare advocates and other stakeholders across the country support our courageous stance.
The strike has significant implications for healthcare delivery in Kaduna State. Patients are bearing the brunt of the dispute, with many services disrupted or suspended.
We urge the Kaduna State Government to:
1. Engage in genuine dialogue with the nurses' union.
2. Address the lingering grievances.
3. Withdraw the "no work, no pay" policy and threats of sanctions.
The Kaduna State nurses' strike is a testament to the power of collective action. As the management continues its intimidation tactics, the nurses remain steadfast, committed to their demands for better working conditions and patient care.
Nr Anangha Bako
