The Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Abia State government to clear the backlog of doctors salary arrears in the state or the entire health sector would be shut down.
In a letter addressed to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, the NMA vowed that doctors in the state both in public and private hospitals, would proceed on total and indefinite strike action if the government failed to meet its demand.
NMA Chairman, Dr Isaiah Abali; and Secretary, Dr Daniel Ekeleme, decried the plight of doctors in the state’s employ following months of unpaid wages.
According to the letter, “doctors working in the Health Management Board ( HMB) are owed 12 months salary arrears, while Resident Doctors in ABSUTH are owed 20 months and other cadre of Doctors in ABSUTH 24months”.
