Posted on: Mon 01-05-2017

The National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria (NARD) held an Extra-ordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting at the Apricot hotel, Umuahia on Wednesday 26th April 2017 to consider her response to the protracted victimization and unlawful suspension of Dr Orji Innocent, President Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) Federal Medical Centre Umuahia

Delegates from all over the country converged in Umuahia for this meeting and made the following observations.

Dr Orji Innocent, President Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) of the Federal Medical Centre Umuahia was suspended from the Residency training programme of the Institution by the MD Dr Chuku Abali on the strength of frivolous charges concocted by his accomplices.

The matter that culminated in his suspension did not follow due process. He was neither given a query nor was the matter investigated prior to the suspension. This is unacceptable when handling the suspension of a senior civil servant.

There are instances of procedural recklessness and administrative highhandedness by the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre Umuahia during his tenure as Chief Executive of this institution.

Though several entreaties and appeals have been made to the MD by some stakeholders, well-meaning Nigerians and highly placed Government Officials, the MD has remained recalcitrant in an obvious show of bravado with the approval of his employers in the Ministry of Health.

In solidarity with Dr Orji Innocent who hitherto has had an impeccable service record, the members of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) FMC Umuahia have been on an industrial action for the past two months to protest this obvious injustice.

After exhaustive deliberations, the following resolutions were reached that:

Dr Orji Innocent must be reinstated without further delay.

NARD shall continue to actively engage all relevant stakeholders on the issues related to this impasse.

The industrial action embarked upon by the ARD FMC Umuahia has the full support of the NARD.

The National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria (NARD) hereby issues a 21- day ultimatum for this injustice to be reverted after which she may be forced to proceed on a nationwide industrial action.

NARD reserves the right to pursue justice for Dr Orji Innocent using any means necessary within the ambits of the law to press home this demand for the unconditional reinstatement of Dr Orji Innocent.

 

Appreciation

NARD wishes to appreciate the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, the good people of Umuahia and Abia state for their continual understanding.

NARD especially appreciates the hospitality and good will displayed by the Executive council and members of the ARD FMC Umuahia in ensuring a successful E-NEC

We wish all delegates safe journey to their various destinations.

---

---