The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has threatened to embark on a nationwide industrial action following the assault of a female doctor at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, Ogun State.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, NARD President, Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric” and a reflection of worsening security conditions in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The association warned that failure by authorities to address the incident and underlying safety concerns could trigger a broader industrial crisis across the health sector.

‘Hospitals No Longer Safe’ — NARD

According to NARD, the victim, a House Officer, was attacked after being identified as part of the medical team that treated a patient who later died at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency unit.

The association alleged that the assault was carried out by about seven individuals reportedly linked to Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade.

Describing the incident as a “gross violation of human dignity and professional sanctity,” NARD said the attack underscores a troubling trend of violence against healthcare workers.

“Hospitals are sanctuaries of healing, not battlegrounds of violence,” the statement read. “It is deeply disturbing that doctors are now subjected to physical harm while discharging their duties.”

Doctors Withdraw Services in Sagamu

As an immediate response, NARD directed all its members at OOUTH, including House Officers, to withdraw their services until adequate safety measures are put in place.

The association reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on violence against medical personnel, stressing that the safety of doctors is non-negotiable.

Demands for Justice, Accountability

NARD called for the swift arrest and prosecution of all those involved in the attack, insisting that justice must be both done and seen to be done.

It also urged the management of Gateway ICT Polytechnic to cooperate with security agencies and take responsibility for the actions of its students, including covering the victim’s medical expenses and providing compensation.

In addition, the association tasked the management of OOUTH to urgently strengthen security within the hospital to prevent future incidents.

Warning of Nationwide Action

NARD warned that if its demands are not met promptly, the crisis could escalate beyond Ogun State.

“Failure to meet these demands will compel escalation to a regional and national industrial dispute,” the association stated.

Call for Government Intervention

The doctors’ body also called on federal and state governments to prioritise the protection of healthcare workers, noting that persistent attacks could further weaken Nigeria’s already strained health system.

While expressing solidarity with its members, NARD wished the assaulted doctor a speedy recovery and reiterated its stance:

“Healthcare workers must be protected. Justice must prevail.”