By Bisola Adeyemo
Resident doctors at the Federal Medical Centre, Lokoja, Kogi State have joined their companions in the on going nationwide strike.
It was called by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).
The Lokoja FMC branch President of NARD, Dr. Eneji Joseph confirmed to our daily times on Thursday that all Resident Doctors have joined the strike in compliance with the directives of the national Secretariat of the association, though Doctors are to care for human lives, the federal government should also meet the demands of the Doctors in view of the prevailing economic hardship and the sharp disparity between the Nigerian workers and the political class.
He therefore urged the federal government to urgently call the leadership of the association to a roundtable so as not to compound problems, especially with the ongoing cases of insecurity and acts of violent across the country.
In a similar statement, Chairman Nigeria Medical Association, Kogi State, Dr Omakoju Oyigu , in solidarity with his colleagues NARD, said though the strike may have adverse effect on patients and the general public, federal government should be held responsible for allowing the Residents to embark on strike over their entitlements and rights.
Dr Oyigu explained that Doctors are also Nigerians who contribute immensely to the maintenance and improvement of health of the citizens and facilities, should not be treated with disrespect and disdain.
The first day witnessed several indefinite postponement of appointments with doctors by patients,coming from far and near.
All efforts to get the authorities of the FMC Lokoja to comment on the strike and its possible impact failed they were said to be holding a crucial meeting.