Resident doctors at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, have commenced an indefinite strike following the assault of one of their members.
- +DELSUTH Resident Doctors Declare Strike Over Assault On Member
They also cite worsening insecurity and unsafe working conditions within the hospital environment.
They also cite worsening insecurity and unsafe working conditions within the hospital environment.
In a press statement issued by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), the group strongly condemned what it described as an unprovoked attack on its member and former president, Dr. Adja Harrison.
The incident reportedly occurred during a blockade of hospital access roads by members of the host community.
According to the statement, Harrison had complied with access restrictions earlier in the day, parking his vehicle within the hospital premises and escorting his children out through a pedestrian route to school.
On his return, he stood at a safe distance observing the situation when he made a non-confrontational appeal for a motorcyclist, who was not headed for the hospital, to be allowed passage.
The request, however, allegedly triggered hostility from some individuals, leading to the doctor being slapped and subsequently attacked by a group.
He was reportedly rescued by bystanders who intervened and moved him to safety.
Medical assessment was later said to have revealed injuries to his right ear, including bleeding and signs consistent with trauma to the eardrum, reportedly caused by blunt-force impact.
The ARD noted that the incident reflects a broader pattern of insecurity faced by healthcare workers in the area, including repeated cases of intimidation and threats.
It added that many doctors have resorted to living in nearby towns such as Sapele, Warri, and Benin City due to safety concerns.
Following an emergency congress meeting, the association announced a total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike involving all cadres of doctors, from house officers to senior registrars.
The doctors are demanding a written apology from the host community, improved security within the hospital, assurances against future attacks, full medical care and compensation for the victim, and the identification and prosecution of those responsible for the assault.
While expressing regret over the impact of the strike on healthcare services, the association maintained that the safety and dignity of its members remain paramount.
The ARD also acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Delta State Government to improve the health sector but warned that such progress could be undermined if urgent steps were not taken to address security concerns.
The association, therefore, called on the state government, the Ministry of Health, security agencies, and community leaders to intervene promptly, stressing that the strike will continue until all demands are met.
