Panic has gripped Alimosho General Hospital in Lagos following the tragic deaths of three principal medical officers within a span of just five days. The deceased have been identified as Dr. Otukoya, Dr. Aluko, and Dr. Shuaib.
Dr. Shuaib was the most recent casualty among the trio, having passed away on Monday. The Lagos State Government-employed medical and dental practitioners’ association, known as the medical guild, released a press release addressing the situation.
According to the statement, the deaths are believed to be related to various chronic illnesses, possibly exacerbated by stress. The medical guild has repeatedly highlighted the issues of brain drain, excessive workloads for onshore doctors, and the adverse effects of a shortage of medical professionals to the employer.
In response to the deaths, the medical guild has taken the following resolutions:
1. A three-day mourning period is declared across the entire Lagos State Health System. During this period, all medical and dental practitioners employed by the Lagos State Government are expected to conduct themselves solemnly in respect for their deceased colleagues.
2. At Alimosho General Hospital, where all three late colleagues practiced, elective procedures will be rescheduled during this mourning period. Only emergency cases will be attended to. This decision is made out of respect for the surviving colleagues at the center who may be going through a deep psychological state.
3. The Lagos State Government is given a 48-hour deadline within which to initiate meaningful engagement with the Medical Guild on all welfare matters concerning doctors in Lagos State. This engagement is crucial to address the concerns raised by medical practitioners.
The tragic deaths of these medical officers have highlighted the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and the urgent need for better support and working conditions in the healthcare sector.
