Isaac Samuel
The Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Jos, has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by suspected bandit groups to abduct medical practitioners, including doctors, nurses and other frontline health workers, particularly in conflict-prone areas.
The warning was contained in an internal circular dated April 13, 2026, addressed to all heads of departments and staff of the hospital.
The document was signed by the Director of Administration, Jina leah, on behalf of the Chief Medical Director.
According to the memo, intelligence reports indicated that terrorist groups were planning to target health facilities and abduct medical personnel to treat injured members of their gangs, especially those wounded during encounters with security forces.
The document warned that the suspected groups had shifted tactics, making health workers potential high-value targets due to their medical expertise and accessibility in rural and semi-urban communities.
It stated that the development poses a heightened security risk to healthcare delivery, particularly in hinterland areas where access to security response may be limited.
The circular stated: “Intelligence has uncovered a plan by Terrorist Groups to Kidnap Medical Practitioners, including Doctors, Nurses, and other Auxiliary Health Workers, particularly in frontline States, including Plateau State, to provide treatment for their members who sustained gunshot wounds and other bodily injuries during engagement with security forces.
“This development reflects a tactical shift by the group, aimed at sustaining
operational capability and reducing, mortality among their fighters. The trend poses a serious risk to Health Care Workers, especially in the hinterlands.
“In view of the foregoing, there is a need for health workers to adopt personal and workplace security measures to avoid being victims of these bad elements.
“Also, it is expedient that all Hospital and Health Centers in the State sensitize their workers to be vigilant and report suspicious persons and movements to security agencies for prompt action, while ongoing efforts by secunty, Agencies to avert any untoward developments.”
The hospital management urged staff to adopt strict personal and workplace security measures, maintain vigilance, and avoid unnecessary exposure to risky environments.
It also directed health facilities across the state to sensitise workers on the need to report suspicious movements and individuals to security agencies for prompt action.
The memo emphasised the importance of collaboration between health institutions and security operatives to prevent any possible attacks.
“This is forwarded for your information and necessary action,” the circular noted.
