Nurses, Doctors Attacked at EKSUTH: Ekiti Pledges Stronger Security Measures
The Ekiti State Government has strongly condemned a violent assault on nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado Ekiti, warning that such attacks will face severe consequences. The incident, which occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, involved accident victims reportedly turning violent and physically attacking hospital staff during treatment.
Oyebanji Filani, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, emphasized that healthcare workers operate under challenging conditions to save lives and provide critical care. In a statement released on Sunday, September 21, 2025, in Ado Ekiti, Filani described the attack as “unacceptable” and confirmed that the Nigeria Police Force is investigating. Legal action is underway, with those found guilty facing the full weight of the law.
“Violence is never the answer,” Filani stated.
“Any form of violence, harassment, or intimidation against healthcare personnel will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Our doctors, nurses, and medical professionals work tirelessly to preserve life and ensure quality healthcare for all.”
The commissioner highlighted that attacks on healthcare workers threaten not only individuals but also the broader community’s access to timely and effective medical care. “Hospitals are centers of healing and compassion,” Filani said.
“Turning them into grounds of violence is deeply disturbing and counterproductive.”
The Ekiti State Government, led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, is committed to protecting both patients and healthcare workers. Filani announced plans to collaborate with security agencies and hospital management to strengthen security measures at EKSUTH and other health facilities to prevent future incidents. He urged residents to remain calm and seek lawful channels for addressing grievances.
“We must all remember that in moments of crisis, restraint, patience, and mutual respect are essential,” Filani added. “Together, let us uphold the sanctity of our health institutions and protect those who have sworn to preserve our lives.”
This is not the first instance of violence at EKSUTH. In January 2024, PUNCH Online reported that resident doctors and other hospital workers went on strike following an attack by hoodlums after a patient’s death. The assailants allegedly vandalized the Accident and Emergency Unit and forcibly removed a corpse. The Ekiti State Police Command investigated, charging six suspects with conspiracy, vandalism, willful destruction of government property, threatening violence, and assault on healthcare workers.
The recent assault underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of healthcare workers in Nigeria. Related reports, including calls to end violence on the International Day of Peace and coverage of terror attacks in Borno and Sokoto, highlight the broader context of violence affecting public safety. The Ekiti State Government’s firm stance aims to deter future attacks and foster a safer environment for healthcare delivery.
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May God continue to protect us at our places of work.
It is well with our healthcare system.