Labour Unions Seek Tinubu’s Intervention In Medical Director’s Suspension

Labour unions at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Enugu (FNHE) chapter, have asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene following the suspension of their medical director, Prof Monday Igwe.

The unions include the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN).

In their open letter sent to the president, dated March 5, 2024 and signed by the chairman, JOHESU, Obinna Eze; Eric Ugwu, president ARD; Dr. Ezea Christian and chairman MDCAN, Dr. Nnabuchi Jane, they said Igwe was suspended on September 20, 2023 over allegations from a civil society organisation without proper investigation.

They lamented that despite full cooperation, they have not received feedback from the Ministry of Health’s investigation team.

The unions therefore urged the president to step in in order to ensure transparent reinstatement by demanding a detailed report based on truth and public service rules, clarifying reasons for Igwe’s extended suspension.

They argued that Professor Igwe was known for his dedication and compassion and should receive fair treatment and respect, but not unfair penalties.

The letter reads in part, “We passionately appeal to you to leverage your esteemed office to urge the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to provide a comprehensive report predicated on truth and adherence to public service rule and extant circular on the investigation and transparently elucidate the rationale behind the prolonged suspension of our medical director.

“The continued absence of Professor Igwe not only destabilises our institution but also inflicts undue hardship on his family, as his salary has been halted for several months. This situation is deplorable in the current economic hardship and requires your urgent intervention. Why will a good man suffer because he is not political and dubious?

“Your excellency, we appeal to your elderly sense of judgment, believing that justice and your profound compassionate wisdom will swiftly address this matter and restore stability and integrity to our hospital community.

Your decisive action will not only uphold the dignity of Professor Igwe but also reaffirm our faith in the principles of fairness and justice, which your administration has continuously done in the present dispensation.”