The Yobe State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Muhammad Gana, has condemned the rising incidence of physical and verbal attacks on health workers across the state, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to healthcare delivery and public safety.
Speaking at a news conference on Friday in Damaturu, Dr. Gana said the attacks often occur during medical emergencies and emotionally charged situations. He stressed that violence against health personnel is unacceptable and ultimately harmful to the entire community.
According to the commissioner, the briefing was convened to educate members of the public on the need to end violence against health workers and to highlight the damaging consequences of such actions on healthcare services. He explained that assaults, threats, insults, and intimidation directed at doctors, nurses, midwives, and other health professionals contribute to burnout, low morale, and declining service quality, placing patients’ lives at risk.
Dr. Gana described healthcare workers as the backbone of the health system, noting that many operate under difficult conditions, endure long working hours, and face intense emotional pressure.
“They serve under challenging conditions, often with limited resources, yet they remain committed to saving lives and reducing suffering,” he said.
He observed that most incidents of violence occur during emergencies, moments of grief, or periods of heightened emotion. While acknowledging that some health workers may occasionally appear intolerant due to work-related pressure, the commissioner maintained that this could never justify taking the law into one’s hands. He urged members of the public to report any alleged misconduct by health workers through the appropriate channels.
Dr. Gana warned that attacks on health personnel undermine ongoing efforts to strengthen primary healthcare, reduce maternal and child mortality, and build a resilient health system in the state.
“When healthcare workers are attacked, the entire community suffers,” he said.
He further disclosed that the state government had issued a directive mandating all health facilities to accept emergency cases at all times and ensure the prompt referral of patients to higher-level facilities when necessary, including the provision of transportation. According to him, the measures underscore the government’s commitment to delivering a patient-centred healthcare system in Yobe State.
