Resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have criticized FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for neglecting health facilities and workers’ welfare in Abuja. The doctors expressed concerns over the deplorable state of government-owned hospitals, accusing the minister of prioritizing road projects over the healthcare sector.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, George Ebong, President of the Association of Resident Doctors in the FCT, stated, “The minister has been very busy with projects, fixing roads, and all of that. We feel that he should also focus on the hospitals right now.”
He emphasized the critical need for improved attention to healthcare, describing the sector as “hallowed ground” that should not be neglected. “No matter the things he does by fixing roads and bridges, the hospitals are the very first point of innovation and rehabilitation,” Ebong added.
The doctors had embarked on a three-day warning strike on Wednesday over issues such as unpaid salaries and allowances. This followed the expiration of a three-week ultimatum issued to the government. The strike has disrupted activities in government hospitals across Abuja, including Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, and Nyanya.
Ebong highlighted the dire conditions in these hospitals, noting a lack of electricity, inadequate drugs, insufficient manpower, and cases where only one doctor is available to run entire facilities. He also revealed that some doctors had not received their salaries for six months despite handling the workload of multiple individuals.
“I urge the minister to please ensure that all wages are paid and to visit the hospitals to see their current state,” Ebong appealed.
The doctors’ warning strike has drawn attention to the broader challenges plaguing the healthcare system in the FCT, with calls for urgent intervention from the government.
