The federal government has strongly criticized the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) for initiating a seven-day warning strike. This strike was sparked by concerns over the ongoing kidnapping of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who has been held by bandits since December 2023.
The government responded by stating that the issues raised by NARD were being addressed and warned that it would enforce its “no work, no pay” policy for the duration of the strike. Ado Bako, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health, released a statement expressing disappointment with NARD’s decision.
The Ministry emphasized that it has been actively working with security agencies, including the National Security Adviser, to secure Dr. Popoola’s release. The government assured that significant progress has been made in negotiations and that efforts are ongoing to resolve the situation and improve the welfare of healthcare workers.
The strike has severely impacted public hospitals across the country, leading to widespread disruption of medical services.