The Federal Government has made a fervent appeal to the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to end their seven-day warning strike.
This strike was initiated to demand urgent action for the rescue of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a Kaduna-based doctor who has been in captivity for approximately nine months.
The warning strike by NARD, which began recently, is aimed at highlighting the plight of Dr. Popoola, who was abducted by kidnappers in December 2023.
The prolonged captivity of Dr. Popoola has prompted widespread concern among her colleagues and the medical community, leading to this strike as a form of protest and pressure on authorities to accelerate rescue efforts.
On Thursday, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health, visited the National Eye Centre in Kaduna and took the opportunity to address the ongoing strike. During his visit,
Dr. Alausa called on NARD to suspend the strike, emphasising the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of Dr. Popoola.
“We understand the concerns of the doctors and the urgency of the situation. We are working tirelessly to ensure Dr. Popoola’s safety and return,” Dr. Alausa said.
He assured that both the Federal Government and security agencies are fully engaged in the rescue mission, despite the kidnappers continuously altering their demands.
Dr. Alausa reported that security agencies are actively involved in negotiations with the kidnappers, who have been changing their demands frequently.
The Minister stated that despite these challenges, efforts to secure Dr. Popoola’s release are ongoing and making progress.
“We have been in constant communication with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, as well as the Commissioner of Police,” Dr. Alausa explained.
“Everyone is working diligently to ensure her release. We have been able to confirm that she is still alive, which is a positive development amidst this difficult situation.”
The Minister urged the resident doctors to reconsider their strike action, suggesting that it may not contribute positively to the resolution of the crisis.
He added that the government is taking all necessary steps to address the situation and expressed confidence in the ongoing efforts of the security agencies.
“We believe that the warning strike will not aid in the resolution of this matter. Instead, we ask for patience and continued prayers,” Dr. Alausa said.
“We are dedicated to bringing Dr. Popoola back safely, and we hope that her colleagues can support these efforts rather than exacerbate the situation with a strike.”
The strike by NARD has brought attention to the broader issue of kidnapping and security challenges in Nigeria, especially affecting healthcare professionals.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a serious issue in Nigeria, with various sectors, including healthcare, being particularly vulnerable.
The abduction of Dr. Popoola highlights the need for enhanced security measures and effective response strategies to combat this growing threat.
“The safety of our people, especially those who are serving in critical roles like Dr. Popoola, is of utmost importance to us,” Dr. Alausa affirmed.
“We are doing everything in our power to secure her release and return her to her family and colleagues.”
