The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), commenced a three-day warning strike on Wednesday, citing unpaid salaries, allowances, and poor welfare conditions as reasons for the action.
At a press briefing in Abuja, ARD-FCTA President, Dr. George Ebong, explained that the strike followed the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum issued to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, on December 23, 2024. Despite several dialogues and assurances from the government, the doctors claim no tangible steps have been taken to address their grievances.
“The three-day strike is being implemented across all government hospitals in Abuja, including Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, Nyanya, and others,” Dr. Ebong announced.
He further decried the neglect of hospitals and medical professionals in the nation’s capital, warning of an impending indefinite shutdown if their demands are not met.
“We gave the government an ultimatum to meet our demands. After that, we engaged in dialogues, and they pleaded for two weeks to resolve the issues. However, that time has elapsed, and nothing has been done. Not even the minimum—paying the six months of unpaid arrears to doctors,” he said.
The doctors are demanding prompt payment of salary arrears, improved allowances, and better funding for healthcare facilities.
Impact on Abuja Hospitals
The strike has disrupted services across major public hospitals, including Wuse District Hospital, Maitama General Hospital, and Asokoro District Hospital. Patients seeking medical care have reported long waits and limited services.
Call for Urgent Intervention
The ARD-FCTA President urged the FCT Minister to urgently intervene to prevent further deterioration in healthcare delivery and a potential indefinite strike.
“We are committed to serving our patients, but we cannot continue to work under these conditions. The neglect of doctors in Abuja must end,” Dr. Ebong stated.
The FCTA is yet to release an official statement addressing the strike or providing a timeline for meeting the doctors’ demands.