The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has launched a seven-day warning strike to protest the ongoing abduction of Dr. Popoola Ganiyat, who was kidnapped eight months ago from the staff quarters of the National Eye Centre in Kaduna.
NARD President, Dr. Dele Abdullahi, announced the strike after the association’s National Executive Council (NEC) convened a virtual meeting on Sunday. Dr. Abdullahi voiced the association’s frustration over the lack of progress in securing Dr. Ganiyat’s release, despite efforts by security agencies and the government. “The NEC has decided to embark on a one-week nationwide warning strike starting at midnight, 12:00 am on Monday, 26th August 2024,” he stated.
Dr. Egbue Obiora, NARD’s deputy South-East caucus leader, indicated that the association will reevaluate the situation after the strike. “We will reassess the situation after the warning strike, reviewing the government’s efforts and any progress made,” Dr. Obiora noted. The decision to either continue or end the strike will be determined by the association’s congress.
Dr. Ganiyat was kidnapped on December 27, 2023, alongside her husband and nephew.
Although her husband was released on March 8, 2024, the abductors have issued new demands for the release of Dr. Ganiyat and her nephew. With negotiations still ongoing and both remaining in captivity, NARD has taken this action to draw attention to their plight and press the government for swift intervention to secure their safe return.
