NARD backs 48-hour strike by doctors in Delta over assault

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) stands firm in its support of the 48-hour warning strike initiated by doctors at Central Hospital, Warri. This action is a direct response to the barbaric assault on two of our colleagues, a Senior Registrar and a House Officer, who were physically attacked by the bereaved father of a newborn. The incident, which took place in the Special Care Baby Unit, underscores a deeply disturbing and unacceptable pattern of violence against healthcare workers across Nigeria.

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This deeply disturbing incident… followed the unfortunate demise of a newborn. In the course of discharging their professional and ethical duties, our colleagues compassionately conveyed the sad news and were physically attacked in a completely unjustifiable and barbaric reaction.

We unequivocally condemn this unjustifiable and barbaric reaction. While we acknowledge the apprehension of the suspect, we stress that justice must not only be served but must be seen to be served promptly. The immediate and diligent prosecution of the assailant is paramount to serve as a strong deterrent against future acts of aggression. Furthermore, this incident compels us to reiterate our long-standing demands for the urgent deployment of adequate and functional security architecture across all health facilities nationwide.

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We note that the assailant has been apprehended… however, this incident once again highlights the growing and unacceptable pattern of violence against healthcare workers in Nigeria.

Beyond the immediate need for security and justice, our colleagues deserve comprehensive compensation, protection, and essential psychosocial support. The emotional and professional toll of such attacks is immense, and we will not stand idly by while our members are subjected to such indignity. NARD is in unwavering solidarity with the affected doctors, and we assert that no healthcare worker should endure violence simply for performing their lawful and professional duties.

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Immediate and diligent prosecution of the assailant to serve as a strong deterrent to others.

We must also caution against any attempts to intimidate, harass, or victimize our members in the wake of this strike. NARD will resist any such moves with firm, coordinated, and uncompromising resistance at all levels. Let it be clearly stated: any act of victimisation or repression will have far-reaching consequences, potentially escalating tensions within the health sector. We demand dignity, respect, and safety in our workplaces.

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We stand in unwavering solidarity with our colleagues… No healthcare worker should be subjected to violence simply for carrying out their lawful and professional responsibilities.