Nationwide Disruption: NARD Strike Stops Hospitals From Working Over Kidnapped Doctor, Patients Left Stranded
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) initiated a seven-day warning strike on Monday, demanding the rescue of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a Kaduna-based physician who has been held hostage for approximately eight months.
This nationwide strike has led to widespread disruptions, leaving patients in hospitals across the country facing delays and frustrations. The strike began after Governor Dauda Lawal announced the distribution of 81,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers in Zamfara State.
Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health, met with NARD officials regarding the issue. Dr. Dele Abdullahi, NARD’s President, stated that the minister promised to contact National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu about the situation.
Dr. Popoola, who works at the National Eye Hospital in Kaduna, was the focal point of NARD’s strike. The association’s demands for her release followed multiple requests for intervention, peaceful protests, and a missed deadline for her freedom.
As a result of the strike, patients in Abuja faced severe delays. Routine procedures were postponed, leading to significant inconvenience. At the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, patients like Sarah Adamu, who was waiting for a diabetic consultation, expressed frustration over the postponement. Similarly, Mrs. Aisha Abdul, a retired civil servant, highlighted the impact of the strike on her urgent medical needs.
Dr. Bessie Eziechila, a former chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, noted that the strike left consultants and other healthcare workers struggling to manage patient care. At the National Hospital in Abuja, Dr. Tayo Haastrup acknowledged the delays but reassured that the hospital remained open and continued to serve patients.
NARD defended the strike, emphasizing its necessity to address long-standing issues within the healthcare system. They argued that their actions were crucial for ensuring the safety and integrity of healthcare workers.
The strike also impacted hospitals in Sokoto and Edo States, where resident doctors joined the action. Dr. Uzairu Abdullahi from Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital in Sokoto confirmed their participation, while patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Edo expressed frustration over wasted time and expenses due to the strike.
NARD remains firm in its stance, calling for immediate action from the government and security agencies to secure Dr. Popoola’s release and improve the overall safety of healthcare workers.
