The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has expressed deep concern over the recent brutal killings in Benue State that claimed over 200 lives, including a young pharmacist, Matthew Lormba.
In a statement released on Monday by NARD President, Dr. Osundara Tope, the association condemned the violence in Yelwata community, describing it as "alarming and condemnable."
"The constant bloodletting is taking its toll on an already thinly stretched and fragile health system in Benue State," the statement read. "The mounting death toll is a potential for humanitarian crisis and epidemics which will overwhelm the ability of health workers to cope."
Impact on Healthcare Delivery
NARD highlighted that the violence has significantly diminished the healthcare workforce in the state, with some health workers caught in the crossfire. The killing of pharmacist Matthew Lormba was specifically mentioned as "a stark reminder that health workers are now endangered species of humans in the state and across Nigeria."
According to the association, the security situation has created anxiety among medical professionals, affecting their willingness to work in certain areas. This reluctance contradicts the concept of universal health coverage, particularly for underserved communities.
"This has further depleted access to Primary health care with absenteeism of health workers due to security concerns," NARD stated. "Burn out and mental health issues are unsettling and worrisome as it is affecting the ability of doctors to provide needed care."
Broader Security Concerns
The association also expressed concern about similar violent incidents in Katsina, Zamfara, and other volatile regions of Nigeria. They noted that over 10,000 people have been killed across the country in the last two years, leading to displacement, increased numbers of out-of-school children, and loss of livelihoods.
NARD called on all levels of government to "wake up and implement workable security measures" to stop the escalation of attacks, especially in the North Central and North Eastern regions of Nigeria.
"There must be an immediate stop to the Nation wide blood shed to avert a looming disaster," the statement emphasized. "Government must develop strategies to put a break on Nigeria's mortality experiences due to growing violence and conflicts."
The association criticized what appears to be the government's inability to protect life and property, reminding that "protecting and ensuring right to life is a core duty of government at both State and Federal level."
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