FCT Doctors Begin Three-Day Strike, Halt Hospital Operations

FCT Doctors Begin Three-Day Strike, Halt Hospital Operations-OXYGIST

The Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Capital Territory Administration (ARD FCTA), has embarked on a three-day warning strike to protest unpaid salaries, allowances, and unmet demands.


The strike has paralyzed activities across government hospitals in Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, and Kwali, among other areas in the FCT.


Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, the President of ARD FCTA, Dr. George Ebong, explained that the industrial action followed the expiration of a three-week ultimatum issued to the government late last year.


Dr. Ebong expressed deep concerns over the neglect of doctors’ welfare and the poor state of healthcare facilities in the nation’s capital. He urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to step in urgently to prevent an indefinite strike that could cripple the healthcare system entirely.


“The three-day warning strike is being implemented across all government hospitals in Abuja, including those in Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, Nyanya, and other locations,” he stated.


Dr. Ebong revealed that despite several dialogues with the authorities and a two-week extension requested by the government, no tangible action had been taken.


“We gave the government a three-week ultimatum to address our demands. Following that, we engaged in multiple discussions, and they asked for two more weeks. Even after that period elapsed, nothing has been done—not even the bare minimum. Doctors are owed six months of arrears, and it seems like we’ve been abandoned,” he lamented.


He further called on the FCT Minister to prioritize the welfare of doctors, likening their plight to neglected infrastructure projects.


“Just as roads are being constructed, the welfare of doctors should also be a priority,” he added.


The strike, which was unanimously agreed upon during a Congress held on Tuesday, serves as a warning. According to Dr. Ebong, the doctors will review the situation after the three-day action. If their grievances remain unaddressed, they plan to escalate to an indefinite strike.


“We appeal to the Minister of the FCT to act swiftly to resolve these issues and avert a total shutdown of hospitals in Abuja,” he warned.


It’s worth recalling that the ARD FCTA had issued a 14-day strike ultimatum on December 23, 2024, warning of impending action if their demands were not met. The deadline expired on January 6, 2025, without resolution. 

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