PTF condemns JOHESU strike, says action undermines gains on COVID-19

By Joyce Remi-Babayeju

The Presidential Task Force, PTF on COVID-19 had condemned the ongoing Joint Health Sector Unions, JOHESU, industrial Nationwide strike action as it undermines gains on fight against COVID-19 pandemic in the country.Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire during the PTF COVID-19 press briefing on Monday said JOHESU strike action is unfortunate at this period when the country is gaining against the virus.He said PTF, however, views the recent declaration of industrial action by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) as rather unfortunate and capable of reducing our gains and endangering more loss of lives.” We, therefore, call on JOHESU to stand up to be counted at this critical moment because a continuation of the strike could jeopardize the small gains made in the fight against the virus and the efforts to transform our health systems”. He revealed that the Minister of Labor and Employment has given assurance that efforts are ongoing to resolve all issues raised by JOHESU and call it’s members back to work.The PTF also appreciated the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) for calling off their strike action, and noted the contributions if health workers to the gains on COVID-19 fight.