‘We Won’t Return To Work’ – NARD To Appeal Court Judgement

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) is set to appeal the ruling of the National Industrial Court (NIC) directing its members to return to work.

Naija News earlier reported that National Industrial Court (NIC) had ordered the striking doctors to return to work immediately.

The doctors had commenced their strike action on August 2, accusing the federal government of failing to implement agreements it had with the union and its members.

However, after negotiations broke down, the federal government had dragged the striking doctors before a court of law, asking the court to order them back to work.

The government in its argument said the doctors were essential workers and therefore, not entitled to go on strike.

But in a communique jointly signed by NARD President, Dr Uyilawa Okhuaihesuyi, and the Union’s Secretary-General, Dr Jerry Isogun, on Friday, the union said its lawyers have begun the process to appeal the ruling.

The group added that its lawyers are also going to file an application for stay of execution.

The communique reads: “As we are all aware, especially those that were present in court today (Friday), the NIC has given a ruling on the application for interlocutory injunction filed by the Federal Government,” the statement said. “We are not satisfied with the ruling.

“After consultations with our lawyers, we have instructed our lawyers to appeal the ruling and file an application for stay of execution.”