The Nigerian Medical Association has urged the government to contain the violent attack by hoodlums on ambulances and healthcare workers in the wake of the violence that marred the #ENDSARS protests.
NMA Lagos chairman, Dr. Adetunji Adenekan made the disclosure recently in a press statement made available to Clinical Health Journal.
He declared that if the violence was allowed to continue, it could put the lives of health workers and residents in danger.
The medical doctor further expressed concerns about the use of live ammunition on peaceful protesters at Lekki toll gate on Tuesday, October 20 by security agents, describing the ‘worrisome footages and reported casualties including the loss of lives as a rude shock.
“This sad event of unprovoked and unwarranted attacks of unarmed youth by security agents, whose primary constitutional duty is the protection of lives and property, will be remembered as a day security authority waged war against and attempted to make peaceful protest unconstitutional.
“We are also aware of the restriction of movement of ambulances by some security personnel around the Lekki area during the pandemonium, and damage to one ambulance in another part of the state by hoodlums, thereby endangering the lives of health workers,” the statement reads in part.
The NMA chairman advocated the protection of lives and property during any legitimate campaign.
“It is pertinent to state (here and now) that there is no place for callous brutalisation of the citizens under any guise, and therefore condemn the dastard act in its entirety.
“We also wish to note that this act has led to a more tense atmosphere with public panic and mental health concerns.
“In the same vein, the event is capable of putting the lives of healthcare workers, including medical and dental practitioners, who will have to continue to care for Lagosians, in great danger,” he said.
Adenekan called on the Lagos State Government to create a free flow of movement for emergency responders, ambulances and health workers; while he also urged the government to ensure that survivors are provided needed care without further harassment.
“We call on the state government to make adequate arrangement in respect of the provision of security for health workers and doctors, first responders and all essential workers.
“The NMA also wants an urgent mechanism in place to prevent further escalation of the current situation and ensure the protection of lives and property of Lagosians,” he urged.
Continuing, the Consultant Ophthalmologist said, “We appreciate the efforts of first responders, ambulance drivers, nurses, emergency room physicians and other health workers who worked round the clock to provide care for the wounded Nigerians on account of these attacks; and Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, for visiting some of the victims.”
