Agency Report

The Nigerian Medical Association on Tuesday expressed worry over the incessant killing and kidnapping of doctors across the country.

Dr Ayotunde Fasunla, the Chairman of NMA, Oyo State, said this at a news conference in Ibadan.

Fasunla said that about 20 doctors had been kidnapped in 2021.

The news conference was held to commemorate the 2021 Physician Week.

The theme of the event was: “Nigeria in the Post –COVID-19 Era: Health systems strengthening for national security and prosperity.”

According to him, only one doctor remained in captivity after the association secured the release of others.

“We are using this medium to condemn the kidnapping and killing of doctors and other health workers. The current killings of doctors in Anambra State are condemned in its strongest terms.

“We again urge the Federal Government to do all within its power to rescue those in captivity while ensuring the security and safety of other health workers as well as every other Nigerian,” he said.

Fasunla also called on the Federal Government to put an end to the unending strikes in the country’s health sector.

“This year 2021 will live in our memories for a long time with the challenges that have confronted the health sector as well as the national economic challenges occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The period has been characterised by the issues of welfare of medical and dental practitioners, which culminated in industrial action by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors.

“No doubt that Nigerians had a sufficient dose of the unpleasant effects of the strike action by NARD, which we wished, could have been avoided through proactive intervention of government,” he said.

Fasunla commended doctors and health workers in general for going above and beyond the call of duty in combating the coronavirus pandemic.

“I urge you my dear colleagues to continue with your good work with unwavering commitment, dedication, and utmost professionalism that the Nigerian doctor is historically known for,” he said.

NAN