The management of Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, Ogun State, has dismissed claims that nurses at the hospital were compelled to perform cleaning duties during the ongoing Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) national strike, describing the allegations as “unsubstantiated, baseless, and entirely false.”
In a statement issued on Tuesday, OOUTH said the claims, reportedly made by Abiodun Thomas on behalf of the Elegant Nurses Forum, were circulated without proper verification. The forum had alleged that some hospitals were forcing nurses to undertake cleaning tasks due to the absence of cleaners participating in the month-long industrial action. It described such practices as “unethical, unlawful, and professionally degrading.”
OOUTH management, however, stressed that nurses at the hospital have always been treated with dignity and respect, and that their professional responsibilities have never been compromised. The statement reads:
“The claims as they relate to OOUTH are false, misleading, and entirely baseless. At no time has any member of staff medical or non-medical been pressured, instructed, or compelled to perform duties outside the scope of their professional cadre.”
The hospital also highlighted its commitment to maintaining a professional, ethical, and safe working environment for all staff, including nurses, even amid the challenges posed by the ongoing strike.
Acting Director of Nursing Services, Mrs. Folasade Fawole, further clarified the situation, noting that while nurses may voluntarily tidy their immediate workspaces as part of routine upkeep, cleaning wards and clinic areas is not part of their official duties, and no nurse has ever been compelled to perform such tasks.
The management added that the hospital continues to prioritise staff welfare, patient care, and operational efficiency, and will maintain open channels of communication with relevant authorities and stakeholders to address any concerns that may arise during the strike.
OOUTH’s statement also emphasized that it remains committed to upholding ethical standards in healthcare delivery and ensuring that nurses can perform their core duties without interference or undue pressure.
The hospital concluded by assuring the public that service delivery continues without disruption and that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard both the wellbeing of healthcare staff and the quality of care provided to patients.
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