Resident doctors at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital in Oghara, Delta State, have embarked on an indefinite strike following the alleged assault of one of their members.
The action was announced by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) after an emergency congress meeting, where members resolved to withdraw services across all levels, from house officers to senior registrars.
The doctors said the strike was triggered by the reported attack on their former president, Dr. Adja Harrison, which they described as unprovoked and unacceptable.
According to the association, the incident occurred during a blockade of access roads to the hospital by members of the host community, which had already created a tense environment within the facility.
In a statement, the ARD explained that Dr. Harrison had complied with the restriction earlier in the day by parking within the hospital premises and escorting his children out on foot to school.
On his return, he reportedly observed the situation from a safe distance before making a polite request for a motorcyclist to be allowed passage.
The request, however, allegedly provoked hostility, leading to him being slapped and subsequently attacked by a group of individuals. He was later rescued by bystanders who intervened and moved him to safety.
Medical evaluations reportedly confirmed injuries to his right ear, including bleeding and trauma consistent with blunt-force impact.
The doctors said the incident reflected a wider pattern of insecurity faced by healthcare workers in the area, noting that several staff now live in nearby cities such as Sapele, Warri, and Benin City due to safety concerns.
Following the emergency meeting, the association declared a “total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike,” affecting all categories of resident doctors in the institution.
Among their demands are a written apology from the host community, improved security within the hospital, guarantees against future attacks, full medical treatment and compensation for the injured doctor, and the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
While expressing regret over the disruption to healthcare services, the association maintained that the safety and dignity of medical personnel remain non-negotiable.
The ARD also acknowledged efforts by the Delta Government to improve healthcare delivery but warned that such progress could be undermined if security concerns are not urgently addressed.
The doctors called on the state government, the Ministry of Health, security agencies, and community leaders to intervene immediately, stressing that the strike would continue until their demands are met.
