The Imo State branch of the Nigeria Medical Association has today gone on an indefinite strike.

The group had announced the commencement of the strike on Wednesday in a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Chidiebere Okwara.

According to the statement, the 21-day ultimatum which the association gave the government to meet its demands expired on November 9, 2020.

 Okwara said  the association extended the ultimatum by 14 days following a meeting with state governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, which expired on November 22, 2020.

He added that the NMA was engaged in a struggle for the survival of the medical profession and improved level of medical care in the state.

Okwara said, “All our demands hinge on the revival of the undergraduate and postgraduate medical training in our only teaching hospital, restoration of the dignity of the medical profession through the institution of the appropriate wages in all state establishments, improved infrastructure and fair and friendly private practice environment.”

“We have had many meetings with the government without any tangible result. There is no better time than now to remain resolute for the common good.

“While the strike lasts, we shall remain available and open to the government for an amicable resolution of these challenges.”