Medical professionals in Lagos State have raised alarm over what they describe as a growing pattern of arrests, detention, and alleged extortion targeting doctors following patient deaths, warning that the trend could endanger emergency healthcare delivery.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State chapter, and the Association of Nigeria Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP) made the concerns known during a joint press briefing, saying the situation is already influencing how doctors handle critical medical emergencies.
According to the groups, several doctors have reportedly been arrested after patients died under their care, even in cases involving severe trauma, late hospital presentation, or refusal of treatment by relatives.
They described incidents in which medical personnel were allegedly detained and forced to make financial payments before being released, calling it a disturbing pattern that is pushing doctors toward “defensive medicine” and away from high-risk emergency interventions.
In one cited case, a doctor treating a pregnant woman with severe head injuries was allegedly detained after the patient died, despite the circumstances surrounding the late arrival at the hospital. In another, a medical team was reportedly arrested after a critically ill patient returned home against medical advice and later died.
The associations also referenced additional cases involving surgical complications and pediatric emergencies, where doctors and nurses were allegedly detained and required to pay significant sums to regain their freedom.
Medical leaders warned that such actions are already affecting hospital operations, with some facilities temporarily shutting down after staff arrests, further limiting access to care in vulnerable communities.
Chairman of the NMA Lagos chapter, Dr Babajide Kehinde Saheed, described the situation as unacceptable, stressing that while families have the right to seek redress, complaints against medical practitioners should follow established professional and legal channels rather than arbitrary arrests.
He emphasized that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria is the appropriate body to investigate allegations of professional misconduct and called for respect for due process.
The doctors warned that continued intimidation could worsen Nigeria’s already strained healthcare system, which is facing shortages of personnel and increasing patient demand.
The Lagos State Police Command acknowledged the allegations and said investigations would be conducted, though no official findings had been released.
Medical stakeholders cautioned that without urgent intervention, fear and legal pressure could further compromise emergency care and lead to avoidable loss of lives.
