The Nigeria Army has appealed to Delta State Chapter of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), to shelve the planned sit-at-home protest over the molestation of a medical doctor, Raphael Onyemekehia.
The Army represented by the Sector 1 Commander; Colonel S. Ahmed said the Nigeria Army was deeply saddened by the treatment meted out on the medical doctor during the curfew.
RealTime.ng had reported that Soldiers enforcing the 48-hour curfew imposed by the Delta state government assaulted Dr Onyemekehia by forcing him to swim in a pool of muddy water at Airport road junction, Effurun, Delta State.
Col. Ahmed who received a delegation of the NMA led by the Chairman, Dr Emmanuel Nwose assured medical personnel and other essential workers of their safety and free movement to carry out their services during the curfew period.
He said disciplinary action will be taken against the officers who molested the doctor, noting that after he had introduced himself, they should have allowed him to pass since he was on duty.
The Army Commander stated that the military will not condone such behaviours by its officers and men in their engagements with civilians; and noted that the services of health workers and other essential service providers, especially at this period; are of prime importance.
Dr Emmanuel Nwose had expressed the disappointment of the medical body over the maltreatment of Dr Raphael Onyemekehia, a nurse in Udu Local Government Area and a female doctor in Asaba.
The NMA chairman said doctors had resolved to sit at home until assurances of their safety, apology to the NMA, and disciplinary measures taken against the erring soldiers.