DELSUTH Doctors Begin Indefinite Strike Over Alleged Assault

Healthcare services at Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, have been disrupted as resident doctors commenced an indefinite strike over the alleged assault of a colleague and concerns about growing insecurity within the facility.

The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) announced the action after an emergency congress, citing unsafe working conditions and repeated threats faced by its members. The group decried an incident involving its former president, Dr. Adja Harrison, who was reportedly attacked during a confrontation linked to a blockade around the hospital.

Tension had escalated after access roads to the hospital were obstructed, limiting movement in and out of the premises. Harrison was said to have complied with earlier restrictions, but was later assaulted after appealing for passage for a motorcyclist not headed to the hospital. He was rescued by bystanders and taken to safety, with medical checks confirming injuries to his ear caused by blunt force.

The doctors’ association is demanding a formal apology from the host community, tighter security within the hospital environment, guarantees of protection for staff, compensation and treatment for the injured doctor, and the arrest and prosecution of those involved. It warned that the strike will continue until its conditions are met.