The Federal Government has appealed to the National Association of Resident Doctors to call off their ongoing seven-day warning strike, emphasising that the industrial action could hinder efforts to secure the release of a kidnapped doctor.
The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa made the appeal during a visit to the National Eye Centre in Kaduna on Thursday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, he assured the public that negotiations were underway to ensure the safe return of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who was abducted nine months ago.
“We are fully engaged in efforts to secure her release,” said Dr. Alausa. “I have been in communication with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Commissioner of Police. Everyone involved is working tirelessly to bring Dr. Popoola back safely.”
Dr. Alausa noted that the Federal Government and security agencies are closely coordinating to rescue the abducted doctor. “For the past two days, we’ve had confirmation that she is alive, which is encouraging news,” he added. “We are optimistic that ongoing efforts will lead to her safe return.”
The minister also highlighted the difficulties faced in negotiations with the kidnappers, who he said “keep changing their demands every moment.” Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence in the security agencies’ commitment to resolving the situation.
He also mentioned his recent meeting with NARD leadership to discuss the strike’s impact and urge them to reconsider. “We don’t believe this warning strike will be helpful,” Dr. Alausa stressed. “I appeal to the resident doctors to call off the strike and continue to support efforts for Dr. Popoola’s release. Let’s keep praying for her safe return.”
The strike was initiated to press for Dr. Popoola’s rescue, who has been held captive since December 2023. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed, Chairman of the association at the National Eye Centre, confirmed that the strike was still ongoing and had expanded to include medical and dental consultants in accordance with directives from the national body.
