The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), under the leadership of Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleiman, has condemned the reported physical assault and threats to the life of a Senior Medical Officer at Gwarinpa General Hospital, Lifecamp, Abuja
The incident reportedly occurred on 31st August 2026, while the doctor was on call at the Accident and Emergency Unit. He was allegedly physically attacked by a patient and his companion following a disagreement over his clinical assessment. The assailants reportedly also threatened his life and that of his family.
NARD considered the incident unacceptable and a serious threat to the safety, dignity, and welfare of healthcare workers who continue to provide essential services to the public.
“The National Leadership hereby expresses its full support for the resolutions of the Congress of the Association of Resident Doctors, FCT Administration (ARD-FCTA), including the 48-hour step-down of services at Gwainpa General Hospital from 8:00 am. on 3rd September to 8:00 am. on 5th September 2026, in accordance with the North Central Caucus Guidelines for Response to C of Assault on NARD Members,” it said.
NARD commended the patience, restraint, and maturity demonstrated by the leadership and Congress of ARD-FCTA in allowing the relevant authorities a reasonable opportunity to address the matter.
The association called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to immediately apprehend, investigate and prosecute the alleged assailants in accordance with the law. It said any delay in taking decisive action risks creating a dangerous precedent and further exposing healthcare workers to violence.
NARD also urged the FCT Hospitals Management Board and relevant authorities to urgently strengthen security measures across healthcare facilities, particularly in Accident and Emergency Units, to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, patients and hospital property.
“The National Leadership extends its solidarity and sympathy to our colleague who was assaulted. and his family and assures him and all NARD members that the Association remains committed to protecting the safety, dignity and welfare of its members.
Violence against healthcare workers is unacceptable. Doctors must be allowed to perform their duties in a safe and secure environment,” NARD said.
