National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, on Thursday made a heartfelt appeal to the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), urging them to suspend their ongoing strike to prevent the lives of over 20 million Kano residents from being jeopardized.
Governor Yusuf assured the NMA that he is committed to swift action regarding the investigative panel’s report on the alleged assault of a female doctor by the state’s Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs at Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital.
He stated that the report is already on his desk and awaits prompt action.
The NMA had previously issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Kano State Government to sack the commissioner or face industrial action.
During a live broadcast with selected radio journalists, Governor Yusuf expressed disappointment over the NMA’s choice to strike, describing the dispute as one between “two adults.” He urged the association to allow due process to unfold.
“I am aware that there have been times in the past when planned strikes were called off due to the mutual respect between the Kano State Government and the NMA,” Yusuf said.
“The NMA knows this administration values the welfare of doctors.”
Governor Yusuf emphasized that he had acted swiftly upon learning of the incident by forming an investigative committee with a directive to submit its findings within 48 hours.
“As I speak, the report is already on my table, and I will act on it immediately,” he confirmed.
“But if the NMA feels that no one can appeal to them and the only option is to strike, I urge them to remember the potential impact on the lives of 20 million residents.”
The governor also expressed deep regret on behalf of the government and pleaded with the striking doctors to prioritize the needs of vulnerable patients, including pregnant women and those in critical condition, who are heavily reliant on public health services.
“I appeal to the doctors to reconsider this action and resume their duties for the sake of public health,” Yusuf said, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability and promising that any official found culpable would be held responsible.
Governor Yusuf’s appeal underscores his hope for a swift resolution, balancing the need for accountability with the health and welfare of Kano’s citizens.
