The Nigerian Medical Association, Kano State Chapter has issued a 48 hour ultimatum to the Kano State Government to either dismiss the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Amina Abdullahi HOD immediately or risk industrial action.
The commissioner was allegedly assaulted a female doctor.
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The ultimatum is contained in a statement signed by NMA Chairman Dr. Abdurrahman Ali and Secretary Dr. Ibrahim D. Muhammad respectively.
“The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kano State Branch, is deeply alarmed and outraged by an incident that took place on 1st November, 2024, at the Emergency Paediatric Unit of Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.
“In this distressing incident, a female doctor on duty, who was all alone manning all the paediatric units in the hospital with over a hundred patients in her care, was subjected to harassment and physical assault by a group led by the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Amina Abdullahi HOD, accompanied by security personnel and other unidentified men.
“This assault arose over the unavailability of a prescribed medication–an issue that was entirely beyond the doctor’s control,” the statement said.
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The NMA described the incident as an abuse of power by an official expected to uphold humanitarian values.
“The Commissioner’s actions are a misuse of authority,” NMA said.
“This assault not only undermines the health sector’s integrity but also violates the ethical obligations public officials should uphold. Such behavior endangers healthcare workers and disrupts essential services.”
According to NMA, the decision to give the ultimatum after an emergency meeting which includes “the immediate dismissal of the commissioner and an increase in staffing and security at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.
“The doctor was on duty, single-handedly managing multiple pediatric cases under challenging conditions.This incident highlights broader challenges in our hospitals, including understaffing, lack of resources, and inadequate security for medical personnel.”
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The association urged Governor Yusuf to take immediate action, stressing that healthcare professionals must be able to work in an environment that respects their dedication.
“We call on the Governor to address these issues promptly to prevent further disruptions in the healthcare system,” the statement added.
