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Doctors Protest for Abducted Colleague, Demand Immediate Release or Face Strike

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The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) has joined the growing number of medical professionals demanding the release of their abducted colleague, Dr Ganiyat Popoola.

Dr Popoola, an ophthalmologist with the National Eye Center in Kaduna, was kidnapped on December 27, 2023, along with her husband and nephew. Although her husband was freed in March, Dr. Popoola remains in captivity.

During a peaceful protest dubbed the “Freedom Walk,” ARD members made their voices heard. Dr Adeyemi Famous, speaking on behalf of the association, urged both the federal government and the Kaduna State government, alongside security agencies, to intensify their efforts to secure the release of Dr Popoola and other medical professionals held captive across the country.

Dr Adeyemi stressed that the situation has reached a critical point, warning that if Dr Popoola is not released unharmed, the association is prepared to take more drastic action, including an industrial strike.

He pointed out that this is not an isolated incident, as a growing number of doctors—estimated between 10 to 15—have been abducted in recent times.

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“Doctors are becoming an endangered species in Nigeria,” he noted, highlighting the alarming threat faced by healthcare professionals in the country.

The doctor-to-patient ratio in Nigeria is already stretched thin, with just one doctor for every 10,000 patients, a stark contrast to the ideal ratio of one doctor per 600 patients.

This shortage of healthcare workers places immense pressure on the few doctors available, leading to burnout.

According to Dr Adeyemi, this unsustainable work environment is a major factor driving doctors to leave Nigeria for better opportunities abroad, along with poor salaries, inadequate hospital facilities, and worsening insecurity.

The safety of medical professionals, he emphasized, is paramount not only for their well-being but for the overall quality of healthcare in Nigeria.

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“We cannot afford to lose more doctors, whether to abductions or other forms of violence,” he said.

He reiterated the call for Dr Popoola’s immediate release, urging the Nigerian government and its security agencies to take swift and decisive action.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) have issued a two-week ultimatum for Dr Popoola’s release, which is set to expire at the end of this week.

Should the government fail to act, the associations are prepared to embark on an indefinite strike, a decision they would rather avoid but feel compelled to make if necessary.

In response to the protest, the Chief Medical Director of Ekiti State Teaching Hospital, Professor Kayode Olabanji, commended the doctors for their peaceful approach.

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He expressed deep concern over the rising rates of kidnapping and other security challenges plaguing the country.

Professor Olabanji called on the government to address the root causes of insecurity, not just for the safety of medical professionals but for the benefit of the entire population.

The ongoing abductions of doctors and other healthcare workers have not only heightened concerns within the medical community but also underscored the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare and security systems.

Many fear that if the trend continues, it could lead to a further exodus of skilled professionals, leaving the country’s already fragile healthcare system in even greater jeopardy.


 

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22 Miners Feared Dead in Taraba-Adamawa Mining Pit Collapse

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At least 22 miners are feared dead after a mining pit collapsed at an illegal site in the Gashaka-Gumti National Park, which spans Gashaka LGA in Taraba State and Toungo LGA in Adamawa State. The miners were searching for gold in a restricted area known as Buffa.

Local sources report that all 22 miners are presumed dead. Toungo LGA Chairman Suleiman Toungo confirmed five bodies have been recovered, though he couldn’t specify the total number still buried. The area, despite frequent ranger patrols, is known for continued unregulated mining activities, often carried out at night.

Adamawa Police spokesperson SP Suleiman Nguroje noted recent fatalities from pit collapses, adding that police are working with park authorities to address the illegal mining.


 

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Biden Urges Americans to Unite and Move Forward After 2024 Election Results

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In a statement following the 2024 Presidential Election, President Joe Biden and former First Lady Michelle Obama addressed the American people, acknowledging the outcome of the election and offering their congratulations to President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance.

The two leaders expressed their respect for the democratic process and emphasized the importance of accepting the peaceful transfer of power, even when the results are not what one hoped for.

Biden reiterated that democracy is about more than winning elections; it’s about respecting the will of the people and maintaining the core values that have long been the foundation of the United States.

Biden also took a moment to express his pride in Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, both of whom ran on the Democratic ticket.

He lauded them as “extraordinary public servants” who conducted a “remarkable campaign.”

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Harris, who made history as the first woman and first woman of color to serve as vice president, continues to be a powerful figure in American politics.

Walz, a former teacher and veteran, has led Minnesota with a focus on education and healthcare reform.

The statement defined the challenges that the country has faced in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic strains that followed.

Biden pointed out the rising prices, many of which were a result of the pandemic, and the frustration felt by many Americans who have worked hard but continue to struggle with basic living costs.

These hardships, he noted, have created significant headwinds for Democratic leaders, not just in the United States but globally.

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However, Biden offered a hopeful message, suggesting that the problems facing America are solvable.

He urged the country to listen to one another and return to the foundational principles of the Constitution and democratic norms that have helped build the nation.

He called for a focus on unity, emphasizing that while Americans may not always agree on everything, the path forward requires good faith and understanding, even in the face of deep disagreement.

In closing, Biden reflected on the journey of progress, reminding Americans that building a fairer, more just society is an ongoing effort.

Despite the setback of the election, they reiterated their commitment to working for a more equal, free, and prosperous country.

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Both leaders expressed their gratitude to the staff and volunteers who supported their campaign, acknowledging the hard work of those who believe in public service and the values they fought for.


 

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Atiku Applauds Donald Trump’s Victory And Calls It a Testament to Democracy

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Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and a prominent opposition figure, shared his thoughts on social media following the announcement of President Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election.

Atiku, posting on his X handle, expressed admiration and respect for the American democratic process, describing it as a powerful example of resilience and faith in democracy.

Reflecting on Trump’s win, Atiku hailed it as a significant achievement for the Republican Party, emphasizing that it marks a momentous comeback for Trump himself.

The former Vice President described Trump’s journey as one filled with setbacks and hard-fought battles, showcasing his resilience and determination.

According to Atiku, this victory is not just a personal milestone for Trump but also a symbol of democracy’s strength and capacity for renewal.

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Trump, who has faced considerable political challenges over the years, has managed to keep his support base strong, appealing to Americans who feel that he represents a voice for change and a return to conservative values.

His victory, Atiku stated, demonstrates the power of the people and the spirit of American democracy.

Atiku also pointed out that Trump’s win serves as a lesson for democracies worldwide, especially in countries like Nigeria, where calls for credible elections remain critical.

He encouraged Nigerians to reflect on the integrity of the American electoral process and urged leaders in his own country to work towards strengthening their democratic institutions.

For Atiku, Trump’s success is more than a political story; it’s a reminder that fair elections are fundamental to any functioning democracy.

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He expressed his hope that Trump, during his administration, would advocate for electoral transparency and free elections, not just within the U.S. but globally, including in Nigeria.

In his post, Atiku extended congratulations to the American people, applauding their unwavering commitment to the democratic process.


 

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