The Kano State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has demanded the removal of state Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Amina Abdullahi, over allegations of assault on a doctor at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.
In response to the incident, the NMA is urging its members to suspend services at the hospital.
In a statement issued on Monday by NMA Chairman Dr. Abdurrahman Ali and Secretary Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad, the association asserted that the commissioner’s actions “constitute misconduct, punishable by dismissal as enshrined in Section 3(a)(0), (ii), (iv), and (v) of the Public Service Rules.”
The NMA stated that the assault, which took place on November 1 at the hospital’s Emergency Paediatric Unit, represented an abuse of power from an official expected to uphold humanitarian values.
The NMA accused the commissioner and her entourage, including security personnel, of harassing and assaulting the doctor.
The altercation reportedly arose from the unavailability of prescribed medication, a situation beyond the doctor’s control, who was managing over 100 patients single-handedly.
“The NMA Kano Branch finds it particularly disturbing that an official entrusted with the welfare of the state’s citizens would misuse their authority in this manner,” the statement read.
“Such actions not only demonstrate a lack of empathy for the hard-working healthcare professionals but also reveal a troubling disregard for the systemic challenges facing our public health sector, such as chronic understaffing, resource shortages, and security concerns for medical staff.”
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The association highlighted that incidents of this nature are becoming increasingly common, placing medical professionals in unacceptable personal risk as they strive to fulfil their duties under challenging conditions.
Following an emergency meeting, the NMA resolved to take a stand, calling for the immediate dismissal of the commissioner and an increase in staffing and security at the hospital.
“The Association’s Congress has resolved to call for the dismissal of the commissioner who has demonstrated a gross lack of respect and compassion for frontline healthcare workers and a disturbing disregard for the ethical standards expected of public office holders,” the NMA added.
The association further emphasised the need for implementing the minimum benchmark for the number of doctors required to ensure adequate care, thereby preventing the extreme overstretching of medical personnel. They also called for improved security measures to protect both medical staff and patients.
The NMA has threatened to suspend medical services at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital within 48 hours if their demands are not met.
“Our decision to suspend services is difficult but necessary. Healthcare professionals should not have to work in fear. This action calls on both the government and the public to recognise the daily challenges we face in delivering care,” they stated.
The association urged the governor to address the issues promptly to avoid further disruptions in the healthcare system.
“The NMA remains committed to working with the government and all stakeholders to restore and strengthen Kano’s health system so that every resident can receive timely and quality medical care,” the statement concluded.
