Employees of the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan have expressed concern over working conditions in the absence of electricity, as they appeal for assistance from well-meaning Nigerians and government bodies.
During a congress organized by the Joint Action Committee (JAC), which represents all unions within the hospital, workers lamented the lack of electricity since March 19, following the disconnection of power supply by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) due to alleged outstanding debts amounting to N400 million.
The Chairman of the JAC, Mr. Oludayo Olabampe, emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling on senators, government officials at all levels, and philanthropic individuals to intervene promptly.
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He highlighted the detrimental impact of operating without electricity on the hospital’s ability to function effectively, especially given its critical role in healthcare delivery.
Olabampe further stated that if power is not restored by April 2, the unions would be compelled to reduce working hours to between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., potentially disrupting essential services provided by the hospital.
Meanwhile, the UCH management has assured staff, patients, and the public that efforts are underway to address the power outage. Dr. Abiodun Adeoye, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, explained that discussions with IBEDC and the Federal Ministry of Health are ongoing to resolve the issue.
In the interim, the hospital has implemented measures such as installing inverters in critical areas and utilizing dedicated generators to power essential facilities like the theater, ICU, and labor rooms.
However, IBEDC defended its decision to disconnect UCH’s power supply, citing the hospital’s substantial overdue balance and uncooperative attitude towards resolving the debt.
According to IBEDC’s Chief Key Accounts Officer, Johnson Tinuoye, UCH’s outstanding debt of N400 million has persisted for over six years despite multiple attempts to engage with the hospital’s management.
Tinuoye underscored the importance of timely payment for electricity consumption, particularly in light of the liquidity crisis facing distribution companies and the nationwide issue of low power supply.
He urged customers to fulfill their payment obligations promptly to ensure the viability of the sector and reliable service delivery.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by essential institutions like UCH amidst broader economic and infrastructural issues in Nigeria.
