|By Chinwendu Nwani
The Lagos State chapter of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has suspended its industrial action after decisive intervention by the Lagos State House of Assembly, paving the way for the immediate restoration of healthcare services across the state.
The suspension was confirmed over the weekend in a statement signed by the union’s Lagos State Secretary, Kabiawu Gbolahan, who disclosed that the decision followed extensive consultations with labour bodies and professional stakeholders.
According to the union, its leadership resolved to halt the strike after engaging the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), and other relevant groups. JOHESU credited what it described as the “timely and decisive intervention” of the Lagos State House of Assembly for breaking the deadlock.
“The leadership of the Joint Health Sector Unions, after wide consultations with all relevant stakeholders and professional bodies, and based on the assurances given by the Lagos State House of Assembly, has resolved to suspend the ongoing strike action,” the statement read.
The union said it received firm assurances that all issues raised would be given favourable consideration. On the strength of those commitments, it directed members to return to work immediately in public health facilities across Lagos.
JOHESU also secured a non-victimisation guarantee for its members. Gbolahan stressed that no worker should face sanctions for participating in the strike, noting that the assurance was clearly provided by the state legislature during negotiations.
Confirming the development, the Lagos State Government announced on Sunday that it had reached a formal agreement with the union following a high-level meeting convened to resolve the impasse.
“The Lagos State Government and the Joint Health Sector Unions have reached an agreement leading to the immediate suspension of the strike previously embarked upon by the union,” the government stated.
Officials described the talks as frank and constructive, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding public health and restoring normal operations across state-owned health institutions.
The government further pledged to address JOHESU’s demands within the framework of established regulations, offering clear assurances and timelines for resolving outstanding concerns.
Authorities revealed that JOHESU’s leadership communicated its decision to suspend the strike after consulting its organs and members, citing the overriding need to protect public health and preserve industrial harmony.
Both parties agreed to sustain dialogue and keep communication channels open to ensure that the resolutions reached translate into concrete and lasting outcomes.
The Lagos State Government acknowledged the vital role of allied health professionals in service delivery and reiterated its commitment to improving working conditions and ensuring equitable treatment across the sector.
Healthcare workers have been directed to resume duties promptly, while consultations continue to consolidate the agreement. The state government also thanked residents for their patience during the disruption and assured them of uninterrupted access to quality healthcare services going forward.
