House of Representatives Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, has begged Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) not to embark of its planned strike.
The speaker asked for enough time to allow for intervention of the National Assembly leadership for an amicable resolution of the issues on ground.
In a meeting with association with the leadership of the House on Monday, the speaker said, “We urge you to appeal to your members to be patient while we find an amicable resolution. Given your faith in us, I would urge you to suspend the impending industrial action while we intervene.
“We equally seek your understanding of the fact that a new administration just came on board and still in the process of settling down as ministers are yet to assume office.”
Tajudeen urged the NARD delegation, to approach the entire matter with open mind and allow House leadership to intervene.
“We feel particularly honoured for accepting to meet with the House even in the face of a looming strike action which notice has been issued according to information available to us.
“Your decision to meet with the House is an affirmation of your faith and confidence in our capacity to intervene and resolve the lingering issues in dispute.
Speaking further, the speaker reminded the association of their relationship and how the House under the former speaker, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila intervened on the matter earlier.
“This is most reassuring owing to the fact that the 9th assembly had previously intervened in this matter. We hope to even go beyond the steps and actions taken by the previous House to ensure that we find a lasting resolution to the ever lingering crisis.
“We are not unmindful of the many sacrifices resident doctors have continued to make in the health sector in spite of the many challenges you face and the poor conditions within which you work. While many of your colleagues have left the shores of our country in pursuit of better working conditions, you have chosen to remain behind in service to the fatherland.
“We commend you for this and assure you that we would deploy every legislative instrument available to us to ensure that you are fully compensated and rewarded for this act of patriotism,” he said.
