In a drastic response to escalating safety concerns in Kano, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has instructed doctors at Hasiya Bayero Paediatric Hospital to cease their services. The decision follows a recent violent incident involving medical staff.
On May 27, two female doctors were assaulted at gunpoint by unidentified assailants, some of whom were reportedly accompanied by hospital security guards. According to a statement by Dr. Abdulrahman Aliyu, Secretary of the NMA Kano branch, the attackers forcibly entered the doctors’ call room, subjected them to verbal abuse, and threatened them with a firearm.
“The doctors were carrying out their professional duties when they were confronted by armed men. Despite their attempts to de-escalate the situation, they were threatened and verbally harassed, with a gun pointed at them,” the statement detailed.
The incident reportedly lasted for nearly an hour, with no intervention from the hospital management or external authorities. This attack is part of a troubling pattern of violence against healthcare workers in the region. Earlier this year, a medical officer was assaulted by armed individuals at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital’s maternity unit.
These recurring incidents have severely impacted the morale and sense of security among healthcare workers in Kano. Dr. Aliyu emphasized the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect medical professionals in the state.
In response, Hajiya Samira Sulaiman, the public relations officer of the hospital’s board, confirmed that an investigation is underway. She assured the public that the findings would be communicated once the investigation is complete.
This withdrawal of services by the NMA shows the urgent need to address security lapses and ensure the safety of healthcare providers, whose critical work is being jeopardized by such threats.
Patients, particularly children in need of paediatric care, will face disruptions in medical services. This can lead to delays in treatment, worsening of health conditions, and increased strain on other healthcare facilities.
The violent incidents and the subsequent withdrawal of services can heighten anxiety and fear within the community. Parents and guardians, especially, may worry about the availability and safety of medical care for their children.
Also, the disruptions in healthcare services can affect the local economy. Families might need to travel further for medical care, incurring additional costs. Moreover, the hospital itself might face financial challenges due to reduced operations.
Furthermore, the morale of healthcare workers across the region may be affected, leading to potential staff shortages if more medical professionals feel unsafe and decide to leave their positions or avoid certain hospitals.
