The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kano State chapter, has called for the immediate removal of the state’s Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Amina Abdullahi, following an alleged assault on a doctor at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano.
The NMA described the incident, which occurred on November 1 at the hospital’s Emergency Paediatric Unit, as an abuse of power and a violation of humanitarian principles.
In an official statement issued Monday by NMA Chairman Dr. Abdurrahman Ali and Secretary Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad, the association condemned the commissioner’s actions, asserting that they “constitute misconduct, punishable by dismissal as outlined in Section 3(a)(0), (ii), (iv), and (v) of the Public Service Rules.”
The NMA further urged its members to suspend services at the hospital if authorities fail to take immediate action.
According to the NMA, the incident escalated when Abdullahi and her entourage, which included security personnel, allegedly harassed and physically assaulted the doctor after learning of unavailable prescribed medication.
The doctor, managing over 100 patients alone due to staffing shortages, was reportedly unable to provide the necessary medicine, a situation beyond their control.
“The NMA Kano Branch finds it particularly disturbing that an official entrusted with the welfare of the state’s citizens would misuse their authority in this manner,” the statement read.
“Such actions not only demonstrate a lack of empathy for the hard-working healthcare professionals but also reveal a troubling disregard for the systemic challenges facing our public health sector, such as chronic understaffing, resource shortages, and security concerns for medical staff.”
The NMA noted that incidents of aggression against medical professionals are increasingly common, posing significant risks to those on the frontlines of healthcare.
The association stressed that such behavior from government officials exacerbates the already severe challenges faced by doctors, who work tirelessly under resource constraints and security risks.
Following an emergency meeting, the NMA Congress resolved to demand the commissioner’s dismissal and called for additional security and staffing at the hospital.
“The Association’s Congress has resolved to call for the dismissal of the commissioner, who has demonstrated a gross lack of respect and compassion for frontline healthcare workers and a disturbing disregard for the ethical standards expected of public office holders,” the NMA added.
In its statement, the NMA also advocated for implementing a minimum benchmark for doctor-to-patient ratios to prevent healthcare workers from becoming overextended, which can compromise patient care and the well-being of medical staff.
The association urged that enhanced security measures be adopted to ensure a safe working environment for both staff and patients.
The NMA issued a 48-hour ultimatum, threatening to suspend medical services at the hospital if their demands are not addressed. “Our decision to suspend services is difficult but necessary.
Healthcare professionals should not have to work in fear. This action calls on both the government and the public to recognize the daily challenges we face in delivering care,” the statement read.
The association appealed to the state governor to intervene promptly to prevent further disruptions to Kano’s healthcare system.
“The NMA remains committed to working with the government and all stakeholders to restore and strengthen Kano’s health system so that every resident can receive timely and quality medical care,” the statement concluded.
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