The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has condemned the brutal assault on two of its members, a Senior Registrar and a House Officer of the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) of Central Hospital. Want, under the Delta State Hospitals Management Board

The incident, which occurred on Saturday, April 11, 2026, followed the unfortunate demise of a newborn.

In a statement on Monday, the NARD said in the course of discharging their professional and ethical duties, “our colleagues compassionately conveyed the sad news to the bereaved father, who, in a completely unjustifiable and barbaric reaction, physically attacked them.”

NARD stated that the assailant has been apprehended and is currently in police custody.

The association described the incident as one of the growing and unacceptable patterns of violence against healthcare workers in Nigeria, highlighting that it demands urgent and decisive national action

NARD then demanded the immediate and diligent prosecution of the assailant to serve as a strong deterrent to others.

The association called for an urgent deployment of adequate and functional security architecture across all health facilities.

NARD also demanded comprehensive compensation, protection, and psychosocial support for the affected doctors.

“We stand in unwavering solidarity with our colleagues and deeply sympathise with them over the houmatic ordeal. No healthcare worker should be subjected to violence simply for carrying out the lawful and professional responsibilities,” the association said.

NARD then declared full support for the 48-hour warning strike embarked upon by colleagues at Central Hospital, Want. It said the action is justified and represents a legitimate demand for safety, dignity, and respect within the workplace

“NARD strongly condemns arid unequivocally rejects any attempt by hospital management of government authorities to intimidate, harass, or victimise our members in response to this incident and the lawful actions taken thereafter,” the association said.