Health workers go on indefinite strike

According to statements on 21 July 2008, Nigerian health workers will begin an indefinite strike this week to protest against low pay and the lack of adequate facilities in the country's hospitals. The workers are also protesting the non-replacement of two Ministry of Health officials who were dismissed on corruption charges in April 2008. The health workers -- including doctors, nurses and pharmacists -- will reportedly begin their strike on 23 July, severely jeopardizing the nation's ability to provide health care until the government meets the workers' demands. The strike follows an ultimatum issued by the health workers on 8 July that the government allegedly ignored.