Medical services were disrupted at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, and its Akure Annex after doctors embarked on a 72-hour warning strike over the alleged assault of a colleague by a patient’s relative.
The industrial action, which began on Sunday, has affected healthcare services across the institution as doctors demand immediate action from hospital management and security agencies.
According to the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), FMC Owo chapter, the decision followed an emergency meeting convened after a doctor on duty was reportedly attacked while carrying out his responsibilities.
The association alleged that the doctor was physically assaulted by a patient and the patient’s wife, who reportedly slapped and manhandled him within the hospital premises.
Doctors described the incident as disturbing and expressed concern over what they called a growing pattern of violence against healthcare workers.
According to the ARD, this is reportedly the second case of assault on a doctor within the hospital this year, raising fears about the safety of medical personnel while on duty.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the association announced a total withdrawal of services for 72 hours, stating that the action was in line with the protocols of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).
The doctors insisted that the strike would remain in effect until adequate security measures are introduced across the hospital and its annexes.
They also demanded the arrest of those allegedly involved in the attack, a public apology to the affected doctor, and compensation for the harm caused.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns about workplace safety in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, where medical professionals have repeatedly called for stronger protection against harassment, threats, and physical attacks.
As patients and families face disruptions in healthcare services, many are hoping for a swift resolution that will ensure both the safety of healthcare workers and the restoration of normal hospital operations.
Source: Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), FMC Owo
