In a striking scene, trade unionists gathered to demand electricity supply to UCH. This event took place during a congress organized by the Joint Action Committee (JAC), bringing together the hospital’s various union organizations.
Members of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Allied Institutions (NASU), the National Association of Nurses and Midwives of Nigeria (NANNM), the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) and others were present.
JAC Chairman Oludayo Olabampe told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that workers had been working without electricity since March 19.
The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has cut power supply to UCH over alleged accumulated debt.
Olabampe called on senators, governments at all levels, well-meaning Nigerians and the Oyo State government to urgently intervene in the matter.
He stressed that if electricity was not restored by Tuesday April 2, unions would be forced to ask their members to reduce their working hours.
Meanwhile, UCH management assured staff, patients and the public that every effort was being made to restore power supply to the hospital.
At the same time, poignant photos of trade unionists demonstrating for electricity at UCH circulated, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Their determination and mobilization illustrate the vital importance of having basic resources to guarantee quality care.
This situation highlights the reliance of health services on electricity and highlights the need for rapid action to ensure health facilities operate optimally.