The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued an ultimatum to the government, threatening a nationwide strike if their abducted colleague, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, is not released by August 26.
Dr. Popoola, a registrar at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, was kidnapped on December 27, 2023, along with her husband and nephew. While her husband was released in March, Dr. Popoola and her nephew remain in captivity.
NARD President, Dr. Dele Abdullahi, expressed frustration with the government’s inaction, stating that the association has lost patience and will organize a national press conference and protest march in all tertiary hospitals across the nation to demand Dr. Popoola’s release.
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If she is not freed by August 26, the association will embark on industrial action.
The association has written several letters to security agencies, the federal government, and the Kaduna State Government, but has seen no significant action.
NARD appreciates the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians and security agencies but urges the government to take concrete steps to rescue their colleague.
This situation highlights the dire need for the government to guarantee the security of healthcare providers, who are essential to the country’s healthcare system.
The association’s threat of a nationwide strike underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate action to ensure Dr. Popoola’s safe release.
