The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State chapter, has taken a drastic step in response to the tragic death of one of its members, Dr Vwaere Diaso, at the General Hospital, Odan, Lagos. Dr. Diaso, a medical house officer, lost her life in a horrifying elevator accident. In protest and mourning, the NMA has directed all doctors working in the three government hospitals on Lagos Island to commence an indefinite strike.
In a press statement signed by Dr Benjamin Olowojebutu, the NMA Lagos State Chairman, and Ismail Ajibowo, the Secretary, the association expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident. According to reports, Dr. Diaso was trapped in the elevator for over 40 minutes before she was rescued, and there was no available blood for resuscitation, raising questions about the adequacy of medical facilities and infrastructure in the hospital.
The NMA emphasized that the incident could have been avoided and lamented the recurring issues surrounding the availability of blood for patients due to a review made by the government on the previous policy on blood donation. The association demanded an immediate and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident and held the General Manager of the Lagos State Infrastructure Management Agency, Ms Adenike Adekambi, responsible for the problems with the elevator.
To show solidarity and respect for their deceased colleague, the NMA declared a five-day mourning period in Lagos State. In addition, they directed doctors in the three government hospitals on Lagos Island, including the General Hospital, Odan, Lagos; Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Lagos; and Massey Street Children’s Hospital, Lagos, to proceed on an indefinite strike until the investigations are completed and justice is served.
For other government hospitals, the NMA urged doctors to scale down activities and limit their services to emergency cases during the mourning period. The association also called on the government to urgently overhaul the house officers’ quarters on Lagos Island and attend to all infrastructural repairs needed in government hospitals.
Furthermore, the blood transfusion system in Lagos State has been deemed in dire need of immediate revamping to ensure improved services and avoid similar tragedies in the future.
As a mark of respect for their deceased colleague, the NMA announced that the upcoming Annual General Meeting will be a low-key event. The association assured its members that the leadership is committed to seeking justice and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring accountability and reform in the healthcare system.
This incident has brought to the forefront the urgent need for improvements in medical facilities and services in Lagos State, and the NMA’s decisive actions aim to spark significant change and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
