....the planned abductions are aimed at forcing kidnapped healthcare workers to provide treatment for injured members of the armed groups, particularly those wounded during confrontations with security operatives
There is growing anxiety in following an internal security alert issued by the over a suspected plot by armed groups to abduct healthcare workers.
The warning, contained in a memo addressed to heads of departments, units, and staff, revealed that intelligence reports point to an emerging plan by bandits and terrorist elements to target medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and auxiliary staff.
According to the hospital’s Director of Administration, Jina Leah, who signed the memo, the planned abductions are aimed at forcing kidnapped healthcare workers to provide treatment for injured members of the armed groups, particularly those wounded during confrontations with security operatives.
The memo described the development as a tactical shift by the groups, noting that it is designed to sustain their operational strength and reduce fatalities among their fighters. It further warned that the trend poses a serious threat to healthcare workers, especially those serving in rural and hinterland areas where security presence is limited.
Hospital management has consequently directed all health workers across the state to heighten personal and workplace security awareness. Facilities have also been urged to immediately sensitise staff and encourage vigilance.
Staff were specifically advised to monitor and report suspicious movements or individuals to security agencies for prompt intervention, as efforts are said to be ongoing to prevent any potential attacks.
The alert underscores the worsening insecurity situation in parts of northern Nigeria, where armed groups have increasingly diversified their operations beyond attacks on communities and highways.
Over the years, insurgent groups such as and other armed bandits operating across states including Kaduna, Zamfara, and Niger have relied heavily on kidnapping for ransom and territorial control.
Recent patterns indicate a growing trend of targeting professionals, including teachers, aid workers, and now healthcare personnel. Analysts believe this shift is strategic, enabling such groups to secure medical care for injured fighters in remote locations where access to formal healthcare services is unavailable.
Authorities have reassured that security agencies are taking steps to avert any untoward developments, although specific measures were not disclosed.
