Federal University of Technology Akure Teaching Hospital Dismisses Labour Allegations
The Federal University of Technology Akure Teaching Hospital (FUTATH) has firmly rejected allegations from organised labour that the hospital failed to comply with the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Federal Government and Ondo State government during the transfer of the United Teaching Hospital annex. The hospital management described these claims as false, misleading, and unsubstantiated, warning that they could create unnecessary tension within the institution.
Organised labour had previously issued a communiqué threatening to shut down hospital facilities, citing concerns over the integration of staff who were inherited from the state government into the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS). However, the hospital's Public Relations Unit, led by Tope Fayehun, stated that the management has strictly adhered to the MoU and all relevant federal regulations throughout the transition process.
Addressing Staff Integration Concerns
In response to the union’s claims about selective staff capturing, the hospital management dismissed these allegations as entirely unfounded. They also challenged the union to provide credible evidence for their assertion that non-staff members were secretly included in the IPPIS system. The hospital emphasized that the capturing exercise was conducted transparently, fairly, and in accordance with procedures approved by the appropriate federal authorities.
The statement from the hospital highlighted the importance of maintaining transparency and fairness in administrative processes. It noted that matters relating to staff integration into the federal payroll are handled through established government channels and cannot be resolved through intimidation or disruptions to hospital activities.
Concerns Over Industrial Actions
The hospital expressed concern over recent actions by some labour leaders, including disruptions to clinical services and interference with the smooth operation of the hospital. These actions, according to the management, could endanger patients who rely on the facility for life-saving medical care. The statement stressed that patient welfare must always remain the top priority.
Reaffirming its commitment to addressing legitimate concerns affecting staff, the hospital emphasized that constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to due process are the most effective ways to resolve issues arising from the transition into the federal system.
Questioning the Motives of Organized Labour
The management raised questions about the motives of the leadership of organised labour, asking whether their objective is genuinely the welfare of workers or if they are being drawn into a proxy fight driven by interests unrelated to employees’ concerns. The statement suggested that certain vested interests, motivated by political considerations and personal agendas, may be attempting to influence the union to pursue objectives that do not reflect the collective interests of workers.
Such external influences, if allowed to prevail, could undermine the spirit of cooperation required for a successful transition into the federal system, the hospital warned.
Call for Constructive Engagement
The hospital urged the union to engage in constructive dialogue, present verifiable facts, and pursue lawful discussions with the appropriate federal government authorities. It called on all stakeholders to support a smooth, transparent, and lawful transition that safeguards both the welfare of staff and the interests of patients.
Commitment to Transparency and Excellence
The hospital reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, industrial harmony, and the welfare of every legitimate member of staff. It pledged to continue working with all relevant federal government agencies to ensure that every eligible employee receives fair treatment in accordance with existing regulations and the agreed transition framework.
The management also appealed to members of staff, patients, and the general public to disregard the misleading allegations contained in the union’s communiqué and remain calm. It assured them that hospital services remain fully operational and that the institution will continue to provide quality healthcare while upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and excellence.
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