The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), indicating that it may enforce a “No Work, No Pay” policy if the doctors do not call off their ongoing warning strike.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations for the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the ministry expressed deep regret over NARD’s decision to proceed with the strike despite ongoing discussions. The ministry emphasized that it has been working in collaboration with relevant security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), to ensure the immediate and safe rescue of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who has been held by kidnappers since December 27, 2023.
The statement highlighted that high-level discussions and coordinated efforts are currently underway, with the government confident that these measures will lead to a positive outcome.
“The ministry finds the decision to proceed with this strike action, in the midst of these ongoing discussions, deeply regrettable. As we believe that continued dialogue is the best approach to resolving any outstanding issues,” the statement read.
The ministry further cautioned NARD that, in line with existing labor laws, the federal government will implement the “No Work, No Pay” policy for the duration of the strike. This measure, the ministry clarified, is not intended to undermine the legitimate concerns of medical professionals but to ensure that essential healthcare services are not unduly disrupted to the detriment of the public.
“We encourage all resident doctors to return to the negotiation table so that we can collaboratively find lasting solutions to the challenges facing our healthcare sector. As always, the ministry remains open to constructive dialogue and is committed to working together with all stakeholders to achieve a fair and sustainable resolution,” the statement added.
NARD recently embarked on a one-week warning strike in protest against the continued captivity of Dr. Popoola, a member of the association. The strike was launched after months of unsuccessful efforts to secure her release.
Meanwhile, the leadership of NARD met with the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, late Thursday evening. During the meeting, the minister pleaded with the doctors to call off their strike, assuring them that the government is making every effort to secure the release of the kidnapped medical personnel.
Onyejeocha conveyed that President Bola Tinubu has ordered increased security around hospital facilities to protect health workers and patients. She also emphasized the president’s commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of all Nigerians.
“The government has heard you clearly, and Mr. President is deeply disturbed by these events. He and the security agencies are working tirelessly to ensure this situation does not persist. I plead with you to reconsider the decision to continue the warning strike because, as we speak, people who are not kidnapped are dying. I know that you are passionate about saving lives,” Onyejeocha stated.
Earlier, NARD President Dr. Dele Abdulahi Olaitan recounted the circumstances surrounding Dr. Popoola’s kidnapping, which occurred at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna. He expressed frustration over the lack of progress in securing her release, despite numerous appeals to security agencies.
Dr. Olaitan lamented that Dr. Popoola, a mother of five and a breastfeeding mother, has been in captivity for nearly eight months. While efforts succeeded in securing her husband’s release, all other attempts have been fruitless.
NARD decided to embark on the warning strike after several protests and media campaigns failed to yield the desired response from authorities.