Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, demanding urgent action on outstanding welfare issues.
The doctors, under the umbrella of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Capital Territory Administration (ARD-FCTA), warned of a total shutdown of hospitals if their demands are not met.
Speaking on Monday in Abuja, the ARD-FCTA President, Dr. George Ebong, acknowledged Wike’s efforts in addressing infrastructural deficits in the FCT but urged him to extend similar attention to the welfare of healthcare professionals.
“While we commend the minister for his infrastructural strides, we urge him to address the neglect of doctors.
While he fixes abandoned projects in the FCT, he must not forget that doctors have become ‘human abandoned projects.’ We believe the minister has the capacity to resolve these issues,” Ebong said.
The association listed several pressing demands, including: Clearing six months’ salary arrears for doctors employed in 2023.Payment of the 2024 Medical Residency Training Fund.
Review of the bonding policy for resident doctors, reducing it from six years to two years.
Implementation of “skipping” with letters issued to affected members employed in 2023.
Payment of accoutrements allowance for 2024.
Payment of outgoing 13 months’ hazard allowance arrears.
Conversion of ARD-FCTA Post 2 members to consultants.
Expedited employment of additional healthcare workers to address manpower shortages.
Dr. Ebong stressed that these demands are essential to prevent a further decline in the nation’s health sector.
“This injustice is unprecedented in the FCT. If these issues are not resolved, the nation’s health sector risks total collapse. The minister must act swiftly to enable doctors to provide optimal care,” he said.
The association reminded Wike of an earlier 21-day ultimatum issued during its Annual General Meeting, noting that seven days of that deadline had already elapsed, leaving 14 days for action.
“We do not want to resort to the deadliest shutdown of hospitals, which could lead to loss of lives. It is imperative that the minister listens and acts without delay,” Ebong warned.
The looming strike threatens to cripple healthcare delivery in the FCT, raising concerns about its potential impact on patients and the broader health sector.
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