Introduction

Health workers at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan have initiated an indefinite strike, pressing for the reinstatement of Dr Adeyinka Ishola, Director of Pharmaceutical Services. The industrial action follows a prolonged dispute surrounding a tricycle sale and alleged administrative misconduct, with the union asserting that the Federal Ministry of Health has already resolved the case in Ishola's favor.

What Happened

The conflict originates from the sale of a tricycle donated to the Pharmacy Department over a year ago. According to the union, Dr Ishola received the tricycle as a gift from a pharmaceutical company, handed it over to the department, and later sold it after encountering maintenance challenges with spare parts. The hospital management initially recommended his suspension, forwarding the case to the Federal Ministry of Health for ratification. An independent investigative team commissioned by the ministry found no evidence of fraudulent activity, concluding that Dr Ishola was only guilty of not informing management about the donation process. The ministry subsequently recommended that Dr Ishola be reprimanded and reinstated. However, UCH management has refused to implement this verdict, maintaining its own position despite the ministry being the hospital's supervisory authority.

Why This Matters

The indefinite strike threatens to further disrupt services at UCH, a major referral and training centre for health professionals and patients across the region. This latest action adds to a growing pattern of labor unrest at the hospital, including a five-day warning strike in March 2026 over electricity rationing that impacted surgeries, laboratory services, and clinical operations. The dispute highlights broader tensions between hospital administration and allied health professionals over transparency, disciplinary procedures, and the enforcement of ministry directives.

Key Takeaways

  • The Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals, UCH Ibadan chapter, has declared an indefinite strike demanding Dr Ishola's reinstatement based on the ministry's recommendation.
  • The ministry's independent investigation found no fraudulent intent, citing only an administrative lapse in communication with management.
  • UCH management continues to reject the ministry's verdict, insisting the tricycle became hospital property after being handed over.
  • The union has exhausted dialogue efforts, issuing two prior ultimatums before mobilizing strike action.
  • Strike action risks compounding existing service disruptions at one of Nigeria's premier teaching hospitals.

Conclusion

As the strike enters its first day, all eyes are on UCH management and the Ministry of Health to determine whether the ministry's recommendation will be honored or if further escalation will follow. The outcome could set a precedent for how disciplinary cases and ministry directives are handled across Nigeria's tertiary health institutions. Stakeholders urge a swift resolution to prevent prolonged disruption of patient care and academic activities.