Medical services at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) in Kwara State have been disrupted following a five-day industrial action declared by resident doctors after the alleged assault of one of their colleagues.
The incident reportedly occurred after a man, identified as Mr. Olatunji, lost his two-year-old son at the hospital’s paediatric ward. In reaction to the tragic loss, he allegedly stormed the ward and physically attacked a female doctor who was attending to another patient at the time.
Sources within the hospital disclosed that the doctor was pushed against an iron bed during the confrontation, sustaining injuries before staff and security personnel intervened to prevent further harm. The suspect was subsequently apprehended by the police.
Confirming the development, the President of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), UITH chapter, Dr. Oladepo Adeshina, described the attack as alarming, noting that it marks the third incident of assault on medical personnel within the hospital in the last three years.
Following an emergency meeting, the association resolved to embark on a five-day suspension of services to protest the incident and demand justice for their colleague. The strike, which began immediately, is expected to last until Monday.
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Dr. Adeshina emphasized that the action was necessary to highlight the growing insecurity faced by healthcare workers and to call for stronger protection measures within medical facilities.
“This trend of violence against doctors is unacceptable. Healthcare professionals should not be subjected to such inhumane treatment while carrying out their duties,” he stated.
The industrial action has left many patients stranded, with several unable to access medical care across various departments. However, hospital sources indicated that consultants may continue to provide emergency services for critical cases during the strike period.
During a peaceful protest within the hospital premises, doctors urged the public to exercise restraint and respect medical personnel, especially in emotionally charged situations.
The incident has once again brought attention to the increasing challenges faced by healthcare workers in Nigeria, including workplace safety concerns and the ongoing migration of professionals seeking better conditions abroad.
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