The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors is threatening a nationwide strike if their abducted colleague, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, is not released by August 26. Dr. Dele Abdullahi, the President of NARD, expressed frustration at the government’s inaction over the abduction during a press briefing in Abuja.
Dr. Ganiyat, a registrar at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, was abducted in December 2023 and remains in captivity along with her nephew. Despite notifying various authorities and writing letters, NARD has not seen significant progress in securing her release.
The association plans to hold a national press conference and protest march in all tertiary hospitals if Dr. Ganiyat is not freed by the deadline. A nationwide strike is also on the cards for August 26 if their demands are not met.
While appreciating support from Nigerians and security agencies, NARD urges the government to take concrete actions to rescue their colleague. Dr. Abdullahi emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of healthcare providers in the country.