The Kwara State chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, NANNM, has warned hospitals in the state not to attempt using student nurses on clinical posting and intern nurses as cover up for the ongoing seven-day warning strike declared by the national body of the association.

In a statement in Ilorin on Wednesday, state Secretary of the association, Marcus Lucas, said reports reaching the body indicated that some hospitals were attempting to use student nurses or interns to take over the responsibilities of registered nurses during the strike period.

The statement warned strongly that “under no circumstances should any student nurse or intern be allowed to take over the responsibilities of registered nurses during this period.

“This poses a serious risk to patients’ safety and constitutes a direct sabotage of our collective industrial action.

“Any Head of Department (HOD) found permitting or encouraging this practice will be held accountable and will face serious consequences.”

The statement called on members to remain resolute and united in the ongoing struggle.