Patients in crisis as JOHESU strike paralyses Lagos Public hospitals

Patients across Lagos State are bearing the brunt of a healthcare crisis as the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) extended its ongoing industrial action, crippling services in public hospitals.

From the bustling hubs of Ikeja and Ikorodu to the outlying communities of Badagry and Epe, government-owned health facilities have been forced to turn away individuals seeking medical care. This has left many with no choice but to seek expensive treatment at private hospitals or forgo medical attention entirely.

JOHESU, the union representing non-physician and non-nursing health professionals in Lagos, stated that the strike was prolonged due to the state government’s failure to provide “clear, measurable and time-bound commitments” to resolve long-standing issues related to pay, professional recognition, and workplace fairness.

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Adelaja Gbadamosi, the union’s Chairman, accused the Lagos State Government of perpetuating injustice within the health sector. Speaking to journalists, he claimed that vested interests were blocking meaningful reforms and insisted that the union would not settle for vague promises.

Represented by union Secretary Kabiawu Gbolahan, Gbadamosi explained that JOHESU had joined the nationwide strike on December 2, 2025, after extensive but fruitless negotiations with state officials.

He noted that the industrial action was a last resort after repeated discussions failed to translate into the practical implementation of agreed-upon terms. “Our members understand the difficulties this action is creating for Lagos residents, but the persistent neglect of our legitimate concerns left us with no alternative,” he said.

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The union outlined several key demands, including:Official recognition and appropriate pay for consultant pharmacists. The establishment of autonomous Departments of Medical Laboratory Services. Provision of staff buses for healthcare workers. Implementation of revised call-duty and shift allowances. Extension of retention allowances to all health professional categories.

JOHESU also alleged that entrenched interests have consistently frustrated efforts to promote professional equity and institutional independence within Lagos hospitals.

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The union criticised what it termed “discriminatory policies,” such as the selective payment of retention allowances to only a few health worker groups. It warned that such practices worsen inequality and contribute to the brain drain of skilled healthcare professionals from the state.

JOHESU has called on the Lagos State Government to demonstrate genuine political will and urgently implement previously reached resolutions to end the standoff and restore healthcare services.