The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has condemned the brutal killings in Yelwata and Daudu communities in Benue State, where over 200 people were reportedly murdered in a two-day attack by suspected herders.
In a statement released on Monday, June 16, NARD President, Dr Tope Osundara, said the violence in Guma Local Government Area is compounding an already overstretched healthcare system in Benue and pushing the state towards a humanitarian crisis.
“The mounting death toll is a potential for humanitarian crisis and epidemics which will overwhelm the ability of health workers to cope.
“Unfortunately, it appears that the government lacks the necessary resources to protect life and property,” he stated.
Osundara said the attacks have directly impacted healthcare workers, leaving parts of the state with diminished medical personnel.
“The violence has diminished the strength of the health workforce in the state, as some health workers were unfortunately caught in the middle of the crisis,” he added.
NARD specifically mourned the killing of a young pharmacist, Matthew Lormba, describing his death as symbolic of the dangers faced by healthcare professionals across the country.
“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.
He also raised concern about growing insecurity in Katsina, Zamfara, and other parts of the North, noting that rising attacks have increased anxiety among doctors and reduced access to primary healthcare.
“The violent attack has increased threats to the safety of doctors, with several complaints about the security of our members. The increasing anxiety is negatively impacting their willingness to work in certain areas.
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“It is deeply concerning as it does not align with the concept of universal health coverage, especially for those in underserved communities.
“This has further depleted access to Primary Health Care with absenteeism of health workers due to security concerns,” he said.
Osundara warned that the psychological impact on frontline doctors is mounting, alongside economic consequences on food production and child nutrition.
“Burnout and mental health issues are unsettling and worrisome, as it is affecting the ability of doctors to provide needed care.
“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,” he said.
He also lamented the broader toll of nationwide violence.
“Over 10,000 people have been killed across Nigeria in the last two years. It has increased the wave of displacement and out-of-school children, with many losing their means of livelihood,” Osundara noted.
NARD called on the government at all levels to act swiftly.
“There must be an immediate stop to the nationwide bloodshed to avert a looming disaster. The government must develop strategies to put a break on Nigeria’s mortality experiences due to growing violence and conflicts.
“Our condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones. May God rest their souls,” he concluded.