No justification for attacking, looting 11 Lagos pharmacies – PSN

The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria said there was no justification for the random attacks and looting visited on 11 community pharmacies in the wake of the violence that followed the shooting of #ENDSARS protesters at Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos State.

On Tuesday, October 20, security agents shot at protesters in an effort to disperse them at Lekki Toll Gate, leading to yet-to-be ascertained number of casualties.

The incident, which attracted both national and international outcry, subsequently degenerated into a mayhem attended by looting of private and public property.

The affected pharmacies were Leotom Pharmacy, Lekki; MyPharmacy, Lekki; Springcare Pharmacy, Gbagada; HealthPlus, Lekki; Shekinah Pharmacy, Fagba; and Medplus, Lekki.

Others are: Justrite Pharmacy, Ajah; Witty Pharmacy, Ajah; Pluracibina Pharmacy, Ajah; and Afonchies Pharmacy, Ajah.

Speaking with PUNCH HealthWise, PSN President, Sam Ohuabunwa, condemned the attack, stressing that pharmacies, just like hospitals, should not be the target of attack.

“The position of PSN on these attacks and looting is clear. It is a condemnable development.

“There is no justification to loot private property whatsoever, much worse, multi-billion naira pharmacies.

“Even in war times, pharmacies, hospitals and other health institutions are protected and exempted from attack, even by invading armies.

“Pharmacists and pharmacies work to protect the health of everybody and it is really unfortunate that this happened. Our records show that about 11 pharmacies were affected,” he said.

He said though no casualty was recorded, some employees suffered bruises during the attacks.

Continuing, Ohuabunwa noted that the violence should be regarded as a sign of desperation.

“As the umbrella body, the solution we can offer is to see how we can help our affected colleagues to rebuild their businesses.

“We will take their matter to the government and all other stakeholders who can offer some assistance

“Secondly, we shall encourage all pharmacies to henceforth insure their premises and assets adequately.

“Thirdly, we shall do all in our power to continue to advocate for good governance, reduction of unemployment and poverty so that this kind of matter will not happen again,” he said.