With the strike embarked upon by the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) and other health workers biting hard on the nation’s public health institutions, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, UCTH, Dr Thomas Agan, has warned members of the striking unions not to threaten the peace of the hospital.

Addressing newsmen, the CMD said, “I advise all members of the striking unions to conduct themselves responsibly. We will resist any attempt to threaten the peace of the hospital or those who chose to provide services for our suffering Nigerians.

“During strike actions, nobody is spared of ill health. It could be any of us. Consequently, I appeal to striking unions and indeed all health workers to put the interest of the patient above all other interests.”

Agan further explained that “the hospital has three core mandates, including Service Delivery, Research and Training (Medical Students, Resident Doctors and other Paramedical Students). These core values must never be allowed to suffer. Consequently, Management will continue to do whatever it takes to ensure these services are sustained.”

He called on the public to “feel free to access services in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital as all Consultants, Resident Doctors, House Officers, youth corps members, contract staff and even students are providing services to the public.”

By: JOSEPH KINGSTON