The nurses further accused the hospital of exposing staff to serious health risks.

“Nurses have been exposed to serious health risks, including being made to participate in surgical procedures involving patients with infectious diseases such as hepatitis B without prior notification or adequate protection,” the petition stated. “This is a clear violation of safety standards.”

They warned that such practices endanger both healthcare workers and patients.

The petition also raised concerns about the hospital’s internal structure, particularly in its theatre units.

“Unqualified technicians, many of whom lack proper medical training, are reportedly placed in leadership positions over trained nurses,” the group said. “This endangers patient safety and undermines professional standards.”

Meanwhile, the Elegant Nurses Forum urged the Lagos State government to take immediate steps, including launching an independent investigation and enforcing labour laws.

“We respectfully call on the Lagos State Government to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into all allegations against the hospital,” the petition read.

It also demanded that authorities compel the hospital to settle all outstanding payments.

“Compel the hospital management to pay all owed salaries and compensation to affected staff without delay,” the group stated.

The petition further called for sanctions if wrongdoing is established.

“Hold accountable any individuals or management found guilty of abuse, negligence, or unlawful practices,” it said, adding that the government should “assess whether the hospital should continue operating under its current management if these allegations are proven.”

One of the affected workers, Blessing Eseoghene Egbonodje, recounted her experience, alleging she was denied her salary after her employment was terminated.

“I worked throughout the month of March, but they refused to pay me my salary,” she said. “My contract was terminated simply because I exchanged my shift with a colleague who was there to cover it.”

She described the action as unfair and unlawful.

“I called to complain about the unlawful behaviour of Coptic and how they refused to pay me despite working,” she added.

The petition concluded with a call for transparency and systemic reforms in the healthcare sector.

“Healthcare workers are vital to the well-being of society and must be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect,” it stated. “Lagos State must remain a place where justice prevails and where no institution operates above the law.”