By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has strongly condemned the brutal killing of Nurse Chinemerem Pascalina Chuwumeziem, a healthcare worker at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja.According to a statement signed by NANNM FCT Chairman, Jama D. Medan, the incident occurred on January 3, 2026. After completing her shift, Nurse Chuwumeziem boarded a vehicle home but tragically did not survive the journey. Her lifeless body was later discovered dumped in a distressing and inhumane manner.
Expressing sorrow and outrage, NANNM called on all relevant security agencies in the FCT—including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—to conduct a thorough, transparent, and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. The union demanded that the perpetrators be promptly identified and brought to justice.The council highlighted the growing insecurity faced by healthcare workers while commuting to and from duty. “Our lives are no longer safe. Nurses leave their homes daily to save lives, yet many are uncertain of returning alive to their families,” the statement said.
NANNM urged the FCT Minister to strengthen security around hospitals and major boarding points for nurses, particularly during early morning and late-night shifts. The union also recommended the provision of safe and organized transportation for nurses to prevent further loss of life.The council extended condolences to the family of the deceased, the management of the Federal Medical Centre, and colleagues across Nigeria. “We share in your grief and pray for the strength to bear this devastating loss,” the statement added.“
Justice must be served for our fallen colleague. Urgent government intervention is needed to guarantee the safety and security of all nurses and healthcare workers in the Federal Capital Territory. Anything short of decisive action will further expose nurses to danger and erode public confidence in the nation’s security system,” NANNM emphasized.The tragic killing of Nurse Chinemerem Pascalina Chuwumeziem underscores the urgent need for strengthened protection for frontline healthcare workers in Nigeria, whose safety is vital for the effective delivery of medical services.
