By Chinedu Adonu

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has condemned the recent mass killings in Benue State, describing them as tragic and unacceptable. The association expressed deep sorrow over the brutal murder of more than 200 persons, including a young pharmacist, Matthew Lormba.

In a statement issued by its President, Dr. Osundara Tope, NARD lamented the deteriorating security situation in Benue and its devastating impact on healthcare delivery.

“The continued bloodshed in Benue State that left over 200 people dead in Yelwata is alarming and condemnable,” the statement read. “This constant bloodletting is taking its toll on an already overstretched and fragile health system.”

NARD warned that the growing death toll could trigger a humanitarian crisis and potential disease outbreaks, which the current health infrastructure may not be able to manage.

“The killing of promising young pharmacist Matthew Lormba is a stark reminder that health workers are now an endangered group in the state and across Nigeria,” Dr. Tope stated.

He noted that the rising insecurity has increased threats to healthcare workers, deterring them from serving in high-risk areas and disrupting access to primary healthcare, especially in rural communities.

“Burnout and mental health challenges are becoming more prevalent among doctors, further hindering their ability to provide care,” the association warned.

Beyond the healthcare implications, NARD highlighted the broader socio-economic consequences, noting that the attacks have disrupted food production, leading to shortages, price hikes, and a rising risk of malnutrition among children.

The association also condemned similar violent incidents in Katsina, Zamfara, and other volatile regions, lamenting that over 10,000 people have been killed in the country in the last two years. This, they said, has worsened displacement, increased the number of out-of-school children, and destroyed livelihoods.

NARD called on the government at all levels to urgently implement practical and sustainable security strategies to halt the violence, particularly in Nigeria’s North Central and North East regions.

“There must be an immediate stop to the nationwide bloodshed to avert a looming disaster. The government must act swiftly to reduce Nigeria’s rising mortality rate linked to violence and conflict,” the statement concluded.