The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has backed a 48-hour warning strike by doctors at Central Hospital, Warri, following the assault of two of its members by the bereaved father of a newborn, describing the incident as a stark reflection of rising violence against healthcare workers in Nigeria.
The attack occurred on Saturday at the hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit under the Delta State Hospitals Management Board, after the doctors—a Senior Registrar and a House Officer—communicated the death of a newborn to the child’s father.
In a statement jointly signed by its President, Mohammad Suleiman, Secretary-General, Shuaibu Ibrahim, and Publicity Secretary, Abdulmajeed Ibrahim, the association condemned the assault in strong terms.
“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,” the statement read.
While confirming that the suspect has been apprehended and is in police custody, NARD stressed that justice must be served promptly.
“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,” it said.
The association demanded immediate prosecution of the suspect, improved hospital security, and comprehensive support for the victims.
“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,” the statement added.
NARD justified the ongoing industrial action by its members in Warri, stating, “This action is justified and represents a legitimate demand for safety, dignity, and respect within the workplace.”
The association also raised concerns over alleged intimidation of its members and warned authorities against reprisals.
“Let it be clearly stated: any attempt to victimise our members will be met with firm, coordinated, and uncompromising resistance from NARD at all levels,” the statement warned.
NARD called for urgent legal reforms to protect medical personnel, stating, “The time has come for concrete legislative measures to criminalise assaults on healthcare workers and enforce strict penalties against offenders. An injury to one doctor is an injury to all.”
