NARD calls for arrest after doctor assaulted at Abuja hospital

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has asked for the immediate arrest and prosecution of two people accused of assaulting a doctor at Gwarinpa General Hospital in Lifecamp, Abuja.

NARD made this demand in a statement on Friday. This followed the reported assault of a senior medical officer on duty at the hospital's Accident and Emergency Unit on 31 August.

The association said a patient attacked the doctor and his companion after a disagreement about his medical assessment.

NARD also mentioned that the attackers threatened the doctor and his family.

The association condemned the incident, saying it posed a serious risk to the safety and dignity of healthcare workers who provide essential services to the public.

48-hour service reduction

NARD backed the decision by the Association of Resident Doctors, FCT Administration (ARD-FCTA), to reduce services for 48 hours at Gwarinpa General Hospital.

This action started at 8 a.m. on 3 September and will run until 8 a.m. on 5 September.

The association said this decision followed the North Central Caucus Guidelines for responding to assaults on its members.

NARD praised the leadership of ARD-FCTA for showing “patience, restraint, and maturity” by allowing enough time for the authorities to handle the situation.

NARD demands action

The doctors' association urged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to quickly arrest, investigate, and prosecute the alleged attackers according to the law.

“Any delay in taking decisive action risks creating a dangerous precedent and further exposing healthcare workers to violence,” the association said.

NARD also called on the FCT Hospitals Management Board and other authorities to improve security across healthcare facilities, especially in Accident and Emergency Units.

They said better security is needed to protect healthcare workers, patients, and hospital property.

The association showed support for the affected doctor and his family, assuring its members that it is committed to their safety and dignity.

“Violence against healthcare workers is unacceptable,” NARD said, emphasizing that doctors must work in a safe and secure environment.