Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) suspended medical services on Wednesday, protesting the non-payment of seven months’ salaries owed to colleagues employed in 2023.
During a visit to Kubwa General Hospital on Wednesday morning, patients were turned away as striking doctors ceased operations. According to insiders, the strike is a three-day warning, which may escalate into an indefinite industrial action if the government does not address their grievances.
The Association of Resident Doctors in the FCT had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the FCT Minister on December 23, 2024, which expired on January 6, 2025. The association’s president, Dr. George Ebong, outlined the doctors’ demands, which include:
- Clearing the Medical Residency Training Fund of 2024.
- Implementation of skipping and issuance of skipping letters for members employed in 2023.
- Payment of the 2024 accouterments allowance.
- Settlement of 13 months’ hazard allowance arrears.
Mrs. Ihiaka, who accompanied her wheelchair-bound daughter to the hospital, expressed dismay at the situation. She lamented being forced to seek treatment at a private hospital regardless of the cost.
“It is sad that the government neglects the health sector while focusing on infrastructure. If citizens suffer negligence in health, the purpose of governance is defeated,” she said, urging the FCT Minister to prioritize health and education alongside infrastructure development.
Efforts to reach Dr. Babagana Adam, Permanent Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environmental Secretariat, were unsuccessful, as he declined to comment on the street
