By Olalekan Awojodu
Abuja
A suit instituted by the Federal government against striking resident doctors at the National Industrial Court, Abuja, was on Mondy adjourned till September 15, 2021 for further hearing.
Gavel International recalls that the striking doctors under the aegis of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) was sued by the Federal Government for embarking on indefinite strike actions on August 2, 2021.
The Doctors cited government failure in meeting most of their demands.
The Minister of Labour and Employment Dr Chris Ngige who took the striking doctors to court also cited abdication of responsibilities by latter.
Consequently, the Industrial Court summoned the doctors to explain why the “no work, no pay” rule should not be applied against them.
While briefing newsmen after the proceedings, President of the NARD, Dr Uyilawa Okhuaihesuyi thanked Nigerians for showing empathy towards their plights.
He said; “We are not unaware of the sufferings you all are going through due to government insincerity of purpose.
“It is one hundred and twenty days (120) today since we heeded your call to call off our industrial action following the government memorandum of action.
“It is five (5) years and eleven (11) months since we signed the memorandum of terms of settlement (MOTOS) yet the Government has reneged.
“As you are aware, today the Government sued us to the National Industrial Court.
“As a law-abiding association, we were in court as summoned, but the Ministry of Labour was absent, and only the Ministry of Health was present representing the Federal Government. The case was adjourned to 15th September 2021.
“We once again appeal to Nigerians to bear with us because a hungry Doctor is a dangerous doctor.
“We are hopeful the government shall do the needful as it pertains to the welfare of our members, thus curbing the ugly incidence of brain drain. Together we can. God bless the beautiful people of Nigeria.”
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