Consequently, her death has raised fresh questions about the safety of healthcare workers in Nigeria.
Doctor dies treating Lassa fever: Resident Doctors Say the Death Was Avoidable
Following the incident, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) expressed deep sorrow and described Dr. Oboyi as a committed professional who died while saving lives.
In a statement titled “Loss of a Hero,” the association said Nigeria’s weak healthcare system exposed the doctor to unnecessary danger. In addition, NARD stressed that poor hospital safety standards continue to threaten medical workers nationwide.
“She died serving humanity. Above all, she fulfilled her professional duty with courage,” NARD said.
Doctors Highlight Gaps in Hospital Safety
Furthermore, NARD blamed the tragedy on inadequate personal protective equipment, weak infection prevention systems, and delayed diagnosis of infectious diseases.
For instance, many hospitals still lack basic safety tools required to manage outbreaks. Because of this, doctors and nurses face daily exposure to deadly infections.
Meanwhile, the association criticised the slow response that often follows the deaths of healthcare workers.
Calls for Immediate Government Action
Therefore, resident doctors urged the Federal and State Governments to take urgent steps to protect frontline workers.
Specifically, they demanded:
- Formal recognition of infectious disease exposure as an occupational hazard
- Compensation and support for affected families
- Stronger infection prevention and control systems
- Regular supply of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Otherwise, NARD warned, the country risks losing more healthcare workers.
Lassa Fever Outbreak Worsens Concerns
Meanwhile, Dr. Oboyi’s death occurred during an ongoing Lassa fever outbreak in several states.
According to health officials, multiple infections and deaths have been recorded nationwide. Notably, healthcare workers remain among the most vulnerable.
Lassa fever spreads through contact with infected rodents or contaminated body fluids. Therefore, early detection and treatment remain critical.
Health Sector Faces Renewed Criticism
As a result, the incident has once again exposed deep weaknesses in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Over the years, doctors have warned about poor funding, weak infrastructure, and inadequate safety measures. Consequently, hospitals have become high-risk workplaces.
A Wake-Up Call for Authorities
Finally, as Nigerians mourn Dr. Salome Oboyi, medical professionals insist that her death must not be in vain.
They argue that protecting healthcare workers will strengthen the health system and save lives. In conclusion, resident doctors say urgent reforms remain the only way forward.
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