The Nigerian Government urges resident doctors to suspend their ongoing strike, appealing for a return to negotiations.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, has been urged by the Federal Government to put their ongoing warning strike on hold.
During a meeting with NARD leaders in Abuja, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha appealed to them while assuring that the government was taking appropriate measures to resolve their concerns.
A seven-day warning strike was declared by OBASANJONEWS’s doctors in protest of their colleagues’ abductions, particularly Dr. Popoola Ganiyat who had been kidnapped eight months ago.
On Friday, the Head of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, Patience Onuobia released a statement in which the minister emphasized that citizens’ safety is paramount to them. It was also affirmed that steps are being taken to tackle any issues raised by doctors.
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Onyejeocha encouraged the physicians to reflect on their responsibilities as professionals and humanitarians, along with the possible hazards posed by the strike for patients’ well-being.
According to her, President Bola Tinubu has been working with security agencies to address the issue and instructed stricter safety protocols for hospital premises.
The government’s efforts to secure the release of their kidnapped colleagues were confirmed by the minister in his assurance to NARD.
Onyejeocha stated that President Tinubu was determined to safeguard lives and assets, as well as prevent the continuation of such circumstances.
“The Minister appealed to them, saying that the work was in progress and requested they withdraw their decision of continuing the warning strike. The Minister pointed out a crucial fact stating people who weren’t kidnapped were dying even as he spoke. He understood that they deeply cared for their fellow brethren’s lives and health incarcerated in hospitals.”
The strike has been duly acknowledged, however it should be noted that a duration of seven days is excessive. Without medical care, individuals can perish in less than an hour.
She sympathized with the families of kidnapped victims who unfortunately lost their lives in a tragic event.
