The Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), South-West Zone, announced an indefinite strike on Monday by clinical lecturers at universities across the region. The action follows the non-payment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
In a statement issued in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, MDCAN Chairman AbdulKareem Salawu and Secretary Omotola Obajolowo explained that the decision was made after the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum on February 2.
“The association resolved to take industrial action after reviewing the expiry of the earlier ultimatum issued on January 13,” the statement said. “The ultimatum called for the payment of CONMESS to clinical lecturers in the region, with failure to comply leading to a potential strike.”
Despite the deadline, the association stated that no progress had been made, and the pay disparity between clinical lecturers in the region and those in other zones remained unresolved.
“As a result, we have decided to begin an indefinite withdrawal of services, effective February 3, until full implementation of the CONMESS salary structure for clinical lecturers in the region,” the statement added.
The association called on the relevant authorities to urge university vice-chancellors to address the issue promptly in order to prevent prolonged disruptions in medical education and healthcare services. It also stressed the need for fairness and equity in the remuneration of clinical lecturers across the country.
