The Federal Government has called on the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to suspend its ongoing warning strike, emphasizing its commitment to addressing the association’s concerns.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, made the appeal during a meeting with NARD leaders in Abuja. The strike, which was declared by the doctors as a seven-day warning action, is in protest of the abduction of their members, particularly Dr. Popoola Ganiyat, who was kidnapped eight months ago.
In a statement released on Friday by the Head of Press and Public Relations of the Ministry, Patience Onuobia, the minister assured that the government is dedicated to ensuring the safety of its citizens and is actively working to address the doctors’ grievances.
Onyejeocha urged the doctors to consider the potential risks to patients’ lives due to the strike, highlighting their professional and humanitarian responsibilities. She stated that President Bola Tinubu has been in communication with security agencies to resolve the issue and has directed an increase in security measures around hospital facilities.
The minister also reassured NARD that the government is working diligently to secure the release of their kidnapped colleagues. She expressed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and properties, ensuring that such conditions do not persist.
“I plead with you that work is ongoing, and to please rescind the decision to continue the warning strike because I know that as we speak, people who are not kidnapped are dying, and I know you’re passionate about the lives and health of your brothers and sisters who are in the hospitals,” Onyejeocha said.
She added that the government acknowledges the importance of the doctors’ concerns but emphasized that the strike’s duration could have dire consequences for patients who need immediate medical attention.
The minister also expressed sympathy for the families of kidnapped victims who have tragically lost their lives during this difficult time.
