Resident doctors at Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, Delta State have commenced an indefinite strike, with threat that it will continue until all demands are met.
The strike may not be unconnected to an alleged assault on one of their colleagues, with Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), demanding a written apology from the host community, improved security, assurances against future attacks, full medical care and compensation for the victim, and the identification and prosecution of those responsible.
Following an emergency congress meeting, particularly, what the group described as worsening insecurity and unsafe working conditions in the hospital environment, the association announced a total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike involving all cadres of doctors.
While demanding a written apology from the host community, improved security, assurances against future attacks, full medical care and compensation for the victim, and the identification and prosecution of those responsible, ARD stressed that the strike will continue until all demands are met.
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In a press statement, the ARD strongly condemned what it described as an unprovoked attack on its member and former president, Dr. Adja Harrison, during a tense situation involving members of the host community.
The incident reportedly occurred amid a blockade of hospital access roads, which restricted movement in and out of the facility and created heightened tension around the premises.
According to the statement, "Harrison had complied with access restrictions earlier in the day, parking his vehicle within the hospital premises and escorting his children out through a pedestrian route to school.
"On his return, he stood at a safe distance observing the situation when he made a non-confrontational appeal for a motorcyclist, who was not headed for the hospital, to be allowed passage", it revealed.
The request, however, allegedly triggered hostility from some individuals, leading to the doctor being slapped and subsequently attacked by a group before bystanders intervened.
He was reportedly rescued and moved to safety, while a subsequent medical assessment revealed injuries to his right ear, including bleeding and signs consistent with trauma to the eardrum caused by blunt-force impact.
The ARD said the incident reflects a broader pattern of insecurity faced by healthcare workers in the area, noting repeated cases of intimidation and threats that have forced many doctors to reside in nearby towns such as Sapele, Warri, and Benin City.
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