Resident doctors at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital have ended their strike after stakeholders intervened in a case involving assault on a female physician. The doctors had walked out to protest an attack by Emmanuel Olatunji, whose two-year-old son died at the hospital's Paediatrics Emergency Department on Wednesday.
Olatunji returned to the facility two hours after leaving his child in his mother's care and allegedly attacked the female doctor. She had used her own money to buy an admission pack so the boy could receive treatment in the father's absence.
The five-day industrial action left many patients without care on Thursday and Friday. Patients seeking medical attention went home unattended because of the strike.
Hospital management released a statement on Friday condemning the assault in the strongest possible terms. The statement, issued by Head of Corporate Affairs Abiodun Fagbemi in Ilorin, reaffirmed the institution's commitment to staff welfare.
"It places the highest value on the lives, safety and welfare of all members of staff in recognition of their unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions to the growth and progress of the hospital," the management said. "At the same time, the health, safety and well-being of our patients remain our foremost priority."
The hospital operates a zero-tolerance policy on assault against healthcare workers, whether physical or verbal. Management stressed this applies especially when staff are carrying out their duties.
The institution has set up channels for patients and relatives to lodge complaints and seek resolution when needed. Notices warning against attacking healthcare workers have been posted throughout the facility in English and several Nigerian languages.
Security staff across all hospital premises now operate under heightened alert to stop any repeat incidents. The measures aim to keep staff, patients and visitors safe.
Management threw its weight behind the Association of Resident Doctors in pursuing all legal avenues available. According to the statement, the suspect had either faced court arraignment or was in the process of appearing before a court of competent jurisdiction when the statement was issued.
"While the management strongly condemns all forms of violence and uncivil behaviour, we remain committed to providing quality healthcare services in a safe, respectful and welcoming environment," the hospital added.
