FUTA TEACHING HOSPITAL DISOWNS CONTROVERSIAL PUBLICATION AGAINST AIYEDATIWA, LABOUR LEADERS
FUTA teaching hospital responds to publication on industrial dispute.
The attention of the Management of Futa Teaching Hospital, Akure, has been drawn to a publication titled “Who Will Save Futa Teaching Hospital from Aiyedatiwa and Organised Labour?”
While Management recognises the writer’s right to express an opinion on matters of public interest, it is concerned that some of the language, descriptions and speculative assertions contained in the publication could undermine ongoing efforts to resolve the current industrial dispute.
Management wishes to state clearly that it did not authorise the publication and completely dissociates itself from any views, allegations or personal descriptions contained therein, particularly those concerning His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Ondo State, organised labour and individual labour leaders.
Management acknowledges the legitimate concerns raised by workers regarding staff transition, payroll arrangements, trade union rights and the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). These issues require constructive engagement and dialogue among the Federal Government, the Ondo State Government, organised labour and Management of Futa Teaching Hospital.
It is important to clarify that Management does not possess the unilateral authority to absorb every worker into the Federal Civil Service or alter the provisions and terms of the MoU. Matters relating to staff verification, eligibility for absorption, payroll arrangements and other aspects of the transition are subject to relevant government policies, established procedures and the decisions of competent authorities.
Management therefore wishes to unequivocally dissociate itself from allegations, personal attacks or unverified claims made against labour leaders in the publication. Statements attributed to anonymous sources, hearsay and unsubstantiated allegations cannot contribute to industrial harmony or provide a constructive pathway towards resolving the issues affecting the Hospital.
The public is consequently advised to treat with caution claims based on anonymous sources, hearsay or unverified personal allegations. Matters concerning staff verification, absorption, payroll and the implementation of the MoU should be addressed through official channels and with the appropriate government authorities.
Our priority remains the restoration of peace, reconciliation and the return of Futa Teaching Hospital to full and uninterrupted operation. Management therefore extends a sincere hand of friendship to the Ondo State Government, Organised Labour and all stakeholders, and appeals for dialogue, mutual understanding and cooperation in the interest of the Hospital and the people it serves.
Management urges media practitioners, commentators and other stakeholders to uphold the principles of fairness, balance, accuracy and the right of reply when reporting matters concerning the institution.
Futa Teaching Hospital belongs to all of us. We must therefore work together to nurture and protect the institution, resolve our differences through dialogue and ensure that the Hospital continues to serve as a centre of excellence in medical education, research and tertiary healthcare delivery.
Management will continue to communicate relevant developments to the public responsibly, transparently and in accordance with established procedures.
Signed:
Prof. Olusegun Ojo
Chief Medical Director
FUTA Teaching Hospital, Akure
