Assault on Doctor Sparks Indefinite Strike at DELSUTH Oghara, as ARD Demand Security, Justice

By Akpos Oghenetega, Medical services at Delta State University Teaching Hospital have been disrupted as resident doctors commenced an indefinite strike following the alleged assault of a colleague, escalating concerns over worsening insecurity within the hospital environment. The strike, declared by the Association of Resident Doctors, affects all cadres of doctors at the hospital, from house officers to senior registrars, after what the group described as an “unprovoked attack” on its member and former president, Dr Adja Harrison. According to the association, the incident occurred during a blockade of the hospital's access roads by members of the host community. Dr Harrison, who had earlier complied with the restriction by parking within the premises and escorting his children to school on foot, was reportedly attacked upon his return. The doctors said Harrison “stood at a safe distance observing the situation” before making a “non-confrontational appeal” for a motorcyclist to be allowed passage, an action that allegedly triggered hostility. He was subsequently “slapped and attacked by a group,” the statement said, adding that bystanders later intervened to rescue him and move him to safety. Medical evaluation reportedly revealed injuries to his right ear, including bleeding and trauma consistent with a blunt-force impact to the eardrum. The ARD said the incident underscores a growing pattern of threats and intimidation faced by healthcare workers, noting that many doctors now reside in neighbouring cities such as Sapele, Warri, and Benin City due to safety concerns. Following an emergency congress, the association declared a “total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike,” insisting that the safety of its members can no longer be guaranteed under current conditions. Among its demands are a written apology from the host community, improved hospital security, guarantees against future attacks, full medical treatment and compensation for the victim, and the identification and prosecution of those responsible. According to the statement of ARD, the strike will remain in force until the following demands are fully met:

1. A written apology from the host community to Dr Adja Harrison and ARD DELSUTH.
2. Provision of maximum security for all healthcare workers within the hospital environment.
3. Clear assurance that such an incident will not recur.
4. Full medical treatment and appropriate compensation for Dr Adja Harrison for both physical and psychological trauma.
5. Identification and appropriate prosecution of all perpetrators involved in the assault.

The Association wishes to state unequivocally that no member should be subjected to victimisation or intimidation as a result of participation in this strike. Any such action will be met with an appropriate and proportionate response by the Association. The safety of healthcare workers is non-negotiable. No doctor will be expected to work under conditions that expose them to physical harm. While we regret the impact of this action on service delivery, we cannot, and will not, compromise the safety, dignity, and welfare of our members. "The Association acknowledges the recent commendable efforts of the Delta State Government under His Excellency Sheriff Oborevwori, particularly through the Ministry of Health, ably led by Joseph Onojaeme, in strengthening the health sector, which has begun to yield positive impact. "However, it is regrettable that these gains are now being jeopardised by the prevailing unsafe conditions within the host environment, as evidenced by the assault on a healthcare worker. "This development, if not urgently addressed, risks reversing the progress already made. We call on the Delta State government, the Ministry of Health, security agencies, and community leadership to act immediately and decisively to restore safety and normalcy. While expressing regret over the disruption to healthcare delivery, the doctors maintained that “the safety and dignity of our members remain paramount.” The association acknowledged the Delta State Government's ongoing efforts to strengthen the health sector, but warned that these gains risk being eroded if urgent action is not taken to address security lapses. It called on the state Ministry of Health, security agencies, and community leaders to intervene swiftly, stressing that the strike will persist until its demands are fully met.