Doctors under the Medical Guild have grounded healthcare delivery in Lagos State to a halt on Monday as they embarked on a three-day warning strike over unresolved salary-related issues with the state government.
The striking doctors, who represent medical professionals employed by the Lagos State Government, accused authorities of making “illegal and disrespectful” deductions from their July salaries and failing to pay 12 months’ arrears owed to honorary consultants under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
According to a notice shared via the Guild’s official X handle, members were directed to withdraw from all medical duties throughout the period of the strike.
The association also warned of disciplinary measures against any member who failed to comply with the directive.
According to reports from Daily Trust, journalists who visited the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) observed that the wards were deserted with red ribbons tied across entry points to signal restricted access.
Several departments were reportedly shut down, and patients seeking care were asked to return home.
Although efforts to reach the Medical Guild chairman, Dr. Moruf Abdulsalam, were unsuccessful as of press time, the Lagos State Ministry of Health issued a statement acknowledging the strike and appealing to the doctors to resume dialogue.
“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 stated.
The strike has sparked concern among residents, especially those with scheduled treatments or emergencies, who now face uncertain access to healthcare.
