Some accident victims reportedly attacked health workers at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State capital.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday when the yet-to-be identified accident victims suddenly became violent while receiving care at the tertiary hospital.
Ekiti State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani in a statement on Sunday, said the “unacceptable act of aggression” has been promptly reported to the Nigeria Police Force, assuring that appropriate investigations and legal actions were already underway.
According to him, “Any form of violence, harassment, or intimidation against healthcare personnel will not be tolerated under any circumstance. Our doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals work under strenuous conditions to preserve life and provide vital health-care to all who come through our hospital doors.
“An attack on them is not only an attack on individuals but a threat to our collective well-being and access to timely, quality healthcare.
“Hospitals are centres of healing and compassion. Turning them into grounds of violence is deeply disturbing and counterproductive. We must all remember that in moments of crisis, restraint, patience, and mutual respect are essential.”
The commissioner appealed to residents of Ekiti State to remain calm and seek redress for grievances through lawful and civil channels.
Filani stressed that Ekiti State Government remains fully committed to the safety and protection of both patients and health workers.
“To this end, we are working in close collaboration with security agencies and hospital management to strengthen security measures and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.”
He reiterated that those found guilty of attacking health workers will face the full weight of the law, adding “Violence is never the answer.”
He called on the public to uphold the sanctity of the health institutions and protect those who have sworn to protect and preserve our lives.
