Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has asked the federal government to prioritise accountability in all sectors of the country’s economy especially in the healthcare system.
Chairman of the chapter, Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, stated this on Monday, during a press conference held in Lagos on the tragic loss of Dr Diaso Vwaere and the ongoing strike by the Nigerian Association of Residents Doctors (NARD).
The passing of Dr Vwaere Diaso, he stated, has cast a sombre shadow on the medical community as it highlighted the critical gaps in the healthcare infrastructure that require immediate attention and overhaul.
He however assured the body of doctors and the general public that everyone involved and culpable in the gruesome murder of the deceased colleague will face the full wrath of the law, while also pledging that the death of Dr Vwaere Diaso must and will count for something.
He said, “The afore-mentioned critical issues have brought to the fore the urgent need for a robust and renewed commitment to the welfare of our doctors and the overall improvement of our healthcare system.
“This juncture presents an opportunity for us to reflect on our collective responsibilities, strive for greater accountability in all sectors of government, and make recommendations for enhancing our emergency preparedness.
“Late Diaso’s avoidable death serves as an immediate and very clear call to action, compelling us to recommit ourselves to the advancement of healthcare in Nigeria. We must recognise that the wellbeing of our doctors and by extension other healthcare professionals directly impacts the quality of care they provide to our citizens.
“The investigative panel of Lagos state government has come out with some preliminary findings and some actions are being taken already. We have seen and read news reports about the Lagos State Government’s probe panel. For us, there are certain pertinent questions that must be answered with full accountability.
“Who were our colleagues writing their complaints about the state of affairs and living conditions in the Doctors’ Quarters? How seriously were those complaints taken? How were the complaints escalated?
“The facility managers before they got paid, who signed off their monthly performance assessment sheet? Who signs off an uncertified contractor to buy a dysfunctional lift for a building that houses over 100 medical doctors? Who gave the doctors an accommodation that can be described as squalid and uninhabitable? These are questions begging for answers and we are certain that the NMA’s panel will help unearth and provide answers.”
Speaking on the ongoing strike embarked upon by NARD, Olowojebutu described as vindictive, unfair and inhuman, the Federal Government no work, no pay policy.
He said, “Amidst the ongoing NARD strike, we acknowledge and understand the multifaceted challenges our doctors are currently facing, which have led them to take this drastic action. The “no work, no pay” policy imposed by the Federal Government is clearly vindictive, unfair and inhumane.
“It is crucial for all parties involved to engage in transparent and constructive discussions to identify common ground and address the concerns that have prompted this strike. We applaud the unwavering determination and commitment of our doctors and strongly urge the government to fulfill its pledge of meeting their demands.
“These demands include the implementation of the one-for-one replacement policy for healthcare workers, improved salary structures, hazard allowances and a revitalised residency training program. NMA Lagos stands with NARD on this.
“These events have emphasised the importance of re-evaluating and improving our emergency preparedness and healthcare infrastructure. The unfortunate passing of Dr Diaso has brought to light the vulnerabilities within our healthcare and safety facilities that require immediate attention.
“It is crucial that we conduct a thorough examination of our emergency response protocols, allocate sufficient funding to healthcare facilities, and make investments in essential medical equipment and supplies.
“By providing our doctors with the necessary resources, we can ensure that they are equipped to deliver effective care in the face of unforeseen challenges.”
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