The Nigerian Medical Association, Lagos State chapter, has directed all doctors working in the three government hospitals on Lagos Island to begin an indefinite strike over the death of their colleague, Dr. Vwaere Diaso. The NMA also declared a five-day mourning period in the state and asked doctors in other government-owned hospitals to scale down activities as a mark of respect for the deceased.
Dr. Vwaere Diaso, a medical house officer, tragically lost her life at the General Hospital, Odan, Lagos, after being trapped in an elevator for over 40 minutes before being rescued. Shocked and saddened by this incident, the NMA demands an immediate and unbiased investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
The association expressed concerns over the lack of available blood for resuscitation, which they believe contributed to the unfortunate outcome. They consider Dr. Diaso’s death as avoidable and are deeply pained by the tragedy. The NMA emphasizes the need for accountability, calling for those found culpable, especially the General Manager of the Lagos State Infrastructure Management Agency, Ms. Adenike Adekambi, to be brought to justice.
In response to the incident, the NMA Lagos State chapter has instructed doctors in the three government hospitals on Lagos Island to begin an indefinite strike until investigations are completed and justice is served. Doctors in other government hospitals are to provide only emergency services for the next five days.
The association also calls for urgent action to overhaul the house officers’ quarters on the island and repair other infrastructures in government hospitals. They stress the need for the immediate revamping of the blood transfusion system in Lagos State to improve services and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In light of this sad incident, the NMA Lagos State has decided that the upcoming Annual General Meeting will be a low-key event as a mark of respect to their deceased colleague.
The association assures its colleagues that they are taking charge of the situation and will do everything possible to ensure that justice is served. They appeal for calm and unity among the medical community during this challenging time.
