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A shortage of essential medical devices and personnel has triggered protests at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, where nurses are demanding urgent intervention to improve patient care.
The healthcare workers have asked the hospital authorities to resolve the problems within 21 days, warning that continued neglect of their concerns could lead to further action.
Among the complaints is the reported shortage of blood pressure monitors, with three wards allegedly relying on a single device. The nurses said the situation could make it difficult to monitor patients effectively, particularly those requiring close medical supervision.
They are also seeking the provision of pulse oximeters, cardiac monitors, thermometers, weighing scales and blood sugar testing devices. Other items on their list include oxygen, emergency resuscitation equipment and essential medications.
The protest has also exposed concerns about the hospital’s basic facilities. The nurses want improvements in electricity and water supply, alongside adequate bedding for patients. They argued that these provisions are necessary to maintain proper hygiene and ensure a suitable environment for treatment.
Staff shortages remain another major issue. The nurses are calling for additional qualified personnel to serve in critical departments, including psychiatric care, emergency services, intensive care, surgery and midwifery. They also want regular training opportunities to strengthen professional skills and improve healthcare delivery.
The workers expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of DStv services in the wards for more than eight months, maintaining that access to television could provide patients with entertainment and help make their stay in the hospital more comfortable.
The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria has also thrown its weight behind the demonstration. The president of its Aro branch, Ojewande Oluwafemi, confirmed the union’s support.
Oluwafemi said the protest had lasted two days as workers pressed for improvements in their working environment and the resources available for treating patients.
The dispute places renewed focus on the operational needs of specialist mental health facilities, where adequate staffing, functional equipment and reliable infrastructure are essential to patient welfare.
The hospital management now faces pressure to address the grievances before the 21-day ultimatum expires.
