NARD Urges Federal Government to Reinstate Five Sacked Doctors In Lokoja Hospital

By TINA TOLUTOPE

THE Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has renewed its call on the Federal Government to reinstate five doctors dismissed by the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja (FTHL) over alleged union-related activities.

Speaking to journalists, NARD President, Dr. Muhammed Suleiman, said the affected doctors have been out of work for more than a year, describing their dismissal as unjust and demoralizing.

He noted that their reinstatement remains one of the key demands in the association’s ongoing 30-day ultimatum to the government.

Dr. Suleiman also urged the Federal Government to address other pending issues, including payment of salary arrears, staff promotions, and allowances.

He warned that continued neglect could worsen Nigeria’s healthcare crisis, with the country currently facing a severe doctor shortage — estimated at one doctor for every 9,000 citizens.

The NARD president appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu to intervene, noting that dialogue and fairness were essential to restoring trust in the public health system.

He commended the new Acting Chief Medical Director (CMD) of FTHL, Dr. Ebune Ojochide, for showing willingness to engage with the association to resolve the dispute peacefully.

“We believe that genuine engagement and fair treatment will go a long way in boosting morale among doctors and ensuring better healthcare delivery for Nigerians,” Dr. Suleiman said.