The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has formally rejected a new bill that would impose a six‑month jail term or a ₦300,000 fine on healthcare professionals who delay emergency treatment.
The proposed legislation, introduced in the Nigerian National Assembly, aims to hold doctors accountable for lapses in urgent care. NARD said the measure would create a climate of fear among medical staff and could discourage them from working in high‑pressure environments.
In a statement, NARD highlighted that the current legal framework already provides mechanisms to address negligence and malpractice. The association argued that criminal sanctions are unnecessary and could undermine patient safety by deterring doctors from taking necessary risks.
While the bill has not yet become law, the rejection by NARD signals opposition from the medical community. The association will continue to lobby for reforms that balance accountability with realistic expectations of emergency care providers.
<small>Source: AllAfrica Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
