Healthcare services were paralysed across Lagos State on Monday as doctors under the Medical Guild commenced a three-day warning strike over salary-related grievances.
The Guild, representing doctors employed by the state government, accused the government of “illegal and disrespectful” deductions from their July salaries and the non-payment of 12 months’ arrears owed to honorary consultants under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
In a post on its official X handle, the association instructed its members to withdraw from all medical duties for the duration of the strike, warning of sanctions for non-compliance.
A visit by Daily Trust to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) revealed empty wards with red ribbons indicating restricted access.
Patients were reportedly told to return home, while several departments appeared deserted.
At Randle General Hospital in Surulere, commercial activity continued, but medical services were suspended.
A resident, Sunday Egbe, said his son’s scheduled surgery was halted. “I was asked to take my son home. There are no doctors available,” he said.
Efforts to reach the Medical Guild chairman, Dr. Moruf Abdulsalam, were unsuccessful.
In a statement, the state Ministry of Health acknowledged the strike and appealed for calm.
“We recognise the importance of our healthcare professionals and are committed to resolving the issues at hand. We urge the Guild to return to the negotiating table for the sake of the public,” the ministry said.
