The management of University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) has been accused of victimizing and perpetuating injustice against 10 staff members who were indefinitely suspended in November 2019. The reason for their suspension was their involvement in union elections, which were duly approved by the national body.
The affected staff members were reinstated on May 19, 2021, following the intervention of the National Assembly. However, despite assurances from the management, their 18-month withheld salaries and allowances remain unpaid. One of the staff members, Mr. Akpatre Etim, was singled out and paid, while the others continue to suffer.
The union, Senior Staff Association, UCTH branch, Calabar, had been factionalized, with the affected staff belonging to the duly recognized faction. Instead of remaining neutral, the hospital management took sides and victimized the approved faction.
The affected staff members have made several attempts to seek explanations from the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Ikpeme A. Ikpeme, but to no avail. They have also sent an SOS letter to the CMD through the Chairman Medical Advisory Committee, requesting payment of their withheld salaries and allowances.
In a shocking move, the management issued letters of non-indebtedness to Mr. Ike Owai Okom, Mr. Edim Alobi, and Mr. Tommy Onan Nkanu in 2024, claiming that they do not owe them any money. This is despite the fact that their salaries and allowances remain unpaid.
We urge individuals, NGOs, and the press to bring attention to this matter and ensure that justice is served. The affected staff members can be contacted through the following numbers: 08038809075 (Mr. Ike Owai Okom), 08037964277, 09066365683, and 08055957718.
This unacceptable decision by the UCTH management must be addressed to ensure fairness and justice for the affected staff members.
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