The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a stark warning of a looming health crisis in Nigeria, directly linking it to the escalating violence and recent mass killings, particularly in Benue State.
The association vehemently condemned the reported killing of over 200 people by suspected herders in Yelwata and Daudu communities of Guma Local Government Area in Benue State over a two-day period.
In a statement released on Monday, signed by its President, Dr. Tope Osundara, NARD expressed profound concern over the severe strain such violence is placing on Benue State’s “already strained and fragile healthcare system.”
Dr. Osundara stressed that the recent attacks have further debilitated the state’s health workforce, with some medical professionals directly impacted.
“The mounting death toll is a potential for humanitarian crisis and epidemics which will overwhelm the ability of health workers to cope,” Osundara stated. “Unfortunately, it appears that the government lacks the necessary resources to protect life and property.”
The association also expressed concern over the safety of healthcare workers, confirming that some of its members were directly affected by the violence. Among those killed was a young pharmacist, Matthew Lormba, whose death NARD described as a symbol of the growing threat to health professionals across Nigeria.
“The killing of promising young Pharmacist Matthew Lormba is a stark reminder that health workers are now an endangered species in the state and across Nigeria,” Osundara said. “The violent attack has increased threats to the safety of doctors, with several complaints about the security of our members.”
He noted that fear and insecurity had led to increasing absenteeism among health workers, especially in underserved communities, further hampering access to essential health services.
“It is deeply concerning as it does not align with the concept of universal health coverage,” Osundara said. “This has further depleted access to primary health care with absenteeism of health workers due to security concerns.”
He also highlighted the psychological impact on medical personnel operating under threat, citing rising cases of burnout and mental health issues among doctors in the region.
“Burnout and mental health issues are unsettling and worrisome, as it is affecting the ability of doctors to provide needed care,” he added.
The NARD President drew attention to the broader impact of the violence on agriculture and food security, warning of increased malnutrition risks due to disrupted farming activities.
“This attack is at the very heart of our food production; thus, production decline, shortage of food supply, and increased food prices put our children at risk of malnutrition,” Osundara warned.
NARD also condemned similar violence in Katsina, Zamfara, and other conflict-prone areas, citing national figures that suggest over 10,000 people have been killed in violent incidents over the past two years. Osundara noted that these killings have led to widespread displacement and increased the number of out-of-school children and citizens without means of livelihood.
He urged authorities at both the federal and state levels to swiftly adopt sustainable and robust security measures, with a particular focus on the North Central and North East zones.
“There must be a prompt end to the widespread violence to prevent a looming catastrophe,” he stated. “It is imperative that the government crafts effective plans to curb the rising death toll linked to escalating unrest and conflict.”
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors offered sympathies to the bereaved families.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May their souls rest in peace,” Osundara added.
