Fellow Nurses Africa Condemns Assault on Nurse at ATBUTH, Demands Prosecution of Perpetrators
Bauchi, Nigeria – March 16, 2026
The Fellow Nurses Africa has strongly condemned a violent assault on a nurse at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi, calling for immediate investigation, prosecution, and stronger protections for healthcare workers.
The incident took place on the night of March 13, 2026, in the hospital’s Emergency Medical Unit. Nurse Jarma (also referred to as Nr. Jarma) was on duty and actively providing care amid challenging conditions, including oxygen shortages. He was performing suctioning on a critically ill patient and responding to another patient’s deterioration when a patient unfortunately died despite full resuscitation efforts.
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According to eyewitness accounts from colleagues and details shared by Fellow Nurses Africa, five relatives of the deceased patient allegedly attacked Nurse Jarma physically. The assault caused a ruptured tympanic membrane (eardrum), other injuries, and considerable psychological distress. Staff reports confirm that all standard medical protocols were followed, rendering the attack completely unjustified.
In an official statement released on March 16, 2026, from Lagos, Fellow Nurses Africa described the violence as a “grave threat” to nurses’ safety and Nigeria’s healthcare system. The organization highlighted how such incidents worsen ongoing issues like understaffing, resource shortages, and high-stress environments, ultimately harming patient care nationwide.
The organization expressed unwavering solidarity with Nurse Jarma and issued clear demands:
- An immediate and comprehensive investigation by ATBUTH management, the Bauchi State Ministry of Health, and law enforcement to identify the attackers and ensure full accountability under Nigerian law.
- Prompt prosecution of those responsible to serve as a deterrent against future violence.
- Full medical, psychological, and professional support for Nurse Jarma throughout his recovery.
Fellow Nurses Africa also urged the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM)—the leading professional body for Nigerian nurses—to step up leadership. This includes mobilizing resources, issuing formal demands for systemic safeguards, partnering with government bodies, and launching nationwide campaigns to combat violence against healthcare workers. The group noted that similar recent cases make urgent, proactive action essential to prevent further decline in professional safety and trust.
The advocacy organization pledged to monitor the case closely, amplify nurses’ perspectives, and work with partners on long-term reforms, including:
- Improved security in emergency departments
- Compulsory de-escalation and violence prevention training
- Strong reporting systems and legal assistance for impacted staff
- Better resource distribution to lessen frontline strain
“Violence against nurses is unacceptable and must end,” the statement declared. “Protecting those who dedicate their lives to caring for others is a shared national responsibility.”
Fellow Nurses Africa can be reached at info@fellownurses.com for inquiries or solidarity messages.
This assault reflects a disturbing pattern of violence against healthcare professionals in Nigeria, heightening calls for decisive measures in an overburdened system. Hospital and state authorities have not yet issued an official update on the matter.
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Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing, we educate, inform and support nurses across Africa
