The Federal Ministry of Health’s move to invoke the ‘no-work-no-pay’ rule against the striking Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) is faulty and unacceptable.

Development Diaries reports that the Assistant Director, Information and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in a statement, said that the government may be compelled to invoke a ‘no-work-no-pay’ rule against them should they refuse to call off their warning strike.

We condemn this move as it fails to address the root cause of the strike.

Health workers, especially resident doctors, are the backbone of the health care system, and their demands often stem from legitimate concerns.

It is understood that the decision of NARD stems from the fact that the government has done nothing to rescue the lady doctor who was kidnapped from their house located within the National Eye Centre in Kaduna in December 2023.

Despite several engagements, including protests and media advocacy, the association was not getting right responses hence they decided to go on a warning strike.

Rather than resorting to punitive measures, the government should prioritise dialogue and swiftly address the issues raised to prevent the situation from escalating further.

Resident doctors are essential to the delivery of health care services, and their absence during a strike can lead to a significant decline in patient care, potentially putting lives at risk.

The government should recognise that the well-being of its citizens is closely tied to the well-being of its health care professionals.

Moreover, in a democracy, the right to protest or strike is a fundamental expression of dissent, especially for essential workers like health professionals who are often on the frontlines of critical issues.

Threatening health workers with punitive measures, such as a ‘No Work, No Pay’ order, undermines their legitimate grievances and also risks suppressing the voices of citizens who rely on these professionals to advocate for better conditions.

Suppressing such actions can stifle dialogue, weaken trust in government, and ultimately harm the democratic process that thrives on the freedom to voice concerns and seek redress.

Development Diaries calls on the Minister of Health, Ali Pate, to revert the stance of the ministry and instead look into their demands as the welfare of health workers is key for the overall quality of health care delivery in the country.