Nigerian doctors demand collective action against insecurity, suggest response guidelines
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, has appealed to the Nigerian government to intensify efforts in combating insecurity, particularly in the nation’s capital, Abuja.
Chairman of the NMA FCT chapter, Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi, addressed a press conference after an Emergency General Meeting, where he expressed grave concerns over the rising insecurity in the country, emphasizing the hazards faced by medical professionals.
Dr. Ugwuanyi highlighted a recent incident involving the abduction of Dr. Chammah McSampson, a dental surgeon, as a poignant reminder of the security challenges confronting healthcare workers in the FCT and Nigeria generlly.
READ ALSO: Doctors worry about painful endometriosis in women, girls
Dr. McSampson was kidnapped along Airport Road on his way home from work but was eventually released due to the concerted efforts of various agencies.
During the meeting, the NMA FCT Congress deliberated extensively on the security situation, noting its detrimental impact on the safety of medical practitioners who often traverse the roads late at night to attend to duty calls.
The Congress underscored the need for collective action involving private individuals, professional associations, and religious organizations to support security agencies in curbing insecurity in Nigeria.
READ ALSO: Doctors in Kano lament as UN says 83% of Africa remains totally unvaccinated against COVID
Response guidelines
In response to these challenges, the NMA FCT Chapter outlined several resolutions aimed at enhancing the safety of its members and advocating for improved security measures.
These include Development of guidelines for responding to doctor kidnappings, including informing security agencies and considering strike action after 24 hours if no progress is made; Adoption of security-conscious measures by doctors, such as avoiding night travels, altering phone contact listings, and refraining from displaying medical paraphernalia in cars; Organization of a press conference to raise awareness about insecurity challenges faced by doctors and to address grievances regarding interactions with government officials; Collaboration with other professional bodies and associations to address security challenges and propose solutions; and Engagement with relevant authorities, including the Directorate of State Services (DSS), to express gratitude for Dr. McSampson’s release and seek clarification on operational procedures.
The NMA FCT chapter expressed gratitude to individuals and organizations involved in securing Dr. McSampson’s freedom, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in combating insecurity.
READ ALSO: Doctors In England begin longest NHS strike ever
The association’s proactive stance reflects its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of medical practitioners and advocating for a secure environment conducive to providing quality healthcare services.
Those who were present at the press conference included the secretary, Dr. Olarewaju Michael; his assistant, Dr. Adewale Premiere; other state chairmen; Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu (Lagos Zone), Dr. Wale Lasisi (Oyo State), Dr. Bashir Faruk (Bauchi State), Dr. Zara Mairami (past chairman NMA-FCT), Dr. M. S. Ibrahim (past chairman NMA-Kaduna), Dr. Hamid Adediran (Medicaster) and Dr. Rosemary Uzowulu.
