A human rights activist in Kwara State, Mr. Lanre Osho, has called on the Federal Government to abolish the “No Work, No Pay” policy imposed on workers whenever they embark on strike.
Mr. Osho made the call while reacting to the lingering dispute between the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and resident doctors during today’s episode of Newspaper Review and Analysis aired on SBS FM. The programme was closely monitored by our reporter, Oluwatosin Babatunde.
According to the rights activist, industrial actions are usually a last resort after workers have exhausted all avenues for dialogue with the government. He argued that withholding workers’ salaries during strike periods only worsens their economic hardship and discourages lawful labour agitation.
Mr. Osho maintained that the “No Work, No Pay” policy undermines fundamental labour rights and does not address the root causes of recurring strikes in the health sector. He stressed that poor welfare packages, inadequate funding, and lack of political will remain major challenges confronting healthcare workers in the country.
He therefore urged the Federal Government to prioritise sincere dialogue and timely negotiations with health sector unions to avoid repeated disruptions in healthcare service delivery nationwide.
Mr. Osho also called on labour unions and professional bodies to continue engaging authorities through peaceful and lawful means while pressing for improved working conditions and better service delivery in the public sector.
