A National Industrial Court in Abuja on Thursday issued an order halting a nationwide strike planned by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) set for January 12.
The federal government, through the Ministry of Health, filed the motion to stop the strike, arguing that the planned industrial action could endanger public health and disrupt hospital operations across the country.
Justice Edith Agbakoba granted the interim injunction, restraining NARD and its members from embarking on the strike pending the determination of the suit.
The doctors had threatened to down tools over the government’s alleged failure to meet demands related to welfare, salary arrears, and poor working conditions. NARD maintained it had given ample warning and that previous agreements had not been honored.
Reacting to the court ruling, NARD President, Dr. Dele Abdullahi, said the association would consult its legal team before taking further steps. He also urged the government to act swiftly to resolve the underlying issues.
“We’re not trying to cripple the system,” Abdullahi said. “We’re asking for fair treatment so we can continue to provide quality care.”
Health ministry officials welcomed the court’s decision and appealed to the doctors to remain at work while negotiations continue.
This is the latest in a series of confrontations between the government and medical professionals over the state of Nigeria’s public health system, which has struggled with funding, infrastructure deficits, and a mass exodus of skilled workers.
