Ondo Nurses Threaten Night Shift Boycott Over Armed Attack on Akure Health Centre
Healthcare services in Ondo State are facing a potential crisis as nurses and midwives have issued a stern ultimatum to the state government, threatening to boycott night shifts in response to a violent armed attack at a primary health facility in Akure, the state capital. This development follows a weekend incident where unidentified gunmen assaulted Oke Ijebu Health Centre within the Akure metropolis, attacking medical personnel on duty and stealing valuables.
The threat was announced by Comrade Felix Orobode, Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Ondo State Council, on Sunday. Orobode described the attack as a clear indicator of worsening insecurity in the state, particularly alarming since it occurred in the heart of the capital city. He emphasized that the safety of healthcare workers is paramount and called for immediate improvements in security measures at all public health facilities.
Security Concerns and Government Ultimatum
According to Orobode, the incident highlights severe security challenges, with many public health centres relying on elderly guards who lack proper training or equipment. He stated, "For this to happen in Okejebu, the heart of Akure, shows clearly that we are facing serious security challenges." Orobode further explained that the attackers forced their way into the facility, beat staff on duty, and abducted some individuals, later abandoning them near Olokuta Prison along Ondo Road.
Orobode expressed deep concern over the potential impact on healthcare delivery, noting that fear among health workers could lead to hesitancy in attending to patients during vulnerable hours, especially at night. He stressed, "The government must act now. The primary responsibility of any government is the security of lives and property." Discussions have reportedly begun with the State Commissioner for Health and the Akure South Local Government Chairman to address the urgent security gaps.
Implications for Healthcare Services
The threatened boycott underscores broader issues of insecurity affecting not only healthcare but also public safety in Ondo State. If implemented, the night shift boycott could disrupt essential medical services, potentially endangering patient care and exacerbating existing healthcare challenges. The NANNM's ultimatum serves as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize the protection of healthcare workers and infrastructure.
This incident adds to growing concerns about security in Nigeria, particularly in regions grappling with rising crime rates. The response from the Ondo State government will be closely watched as stakeholders await concrete actions to prevent future attacks and ensure a safe working environment for medical personnel.
