Resident Doctors in FCT Embark on Strike Over Unpaid Salaries and Poor Conditions

The Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Capital Territory Administration (ARD FCTA), has begun a three-day warning strike to protest unpaid salaries, allowances, and deteriorating hospital conditions. The strike, which affects government hospitals across Abuja, was announced by ARD FCTA President Dr. George Ebong during a press conference on Wednesday.

Background of the Strike

Dr. Ebong revealed that the decision to strike followed the expiration of a three-week ultimatum given to the government. Despite multiple discussions and a two-week extension requested by authorities, no tangible action was taken to address the doctors' demands.

“We gave the government a three-week ultimatum to meet our demands, and after that, we dialogued on several occasions. They pleaded for two weeks, but after that elapsed, nothing has been done. Not even the minimum thing. We expected them to pay the six months of unpaid arrears to doctors,” Ebong stated.

Key Issues Highlighted by ARD FCTA

1. Unpaid Salaries and Allowances: Doctors in the FCT are owed salaries for up to six months, including hazard allowance arrears.
2. Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF): Delays in the disbursement of MRTF, a critical resource for professional development, have hindered resident doctors.
3. Manpower Shortage: The exodus of doctors has left remaining staff overworked and burnt out, with one doctor often handling the workload of five.
4. Dilapidated Hospital Infrastructure: Hospitals in the FCT reportedly lack basic medical equipment, proper facilities, and even essential supplies like water.

Call for Government Intervention

Dr. Ebong expressed frustration over the government’s neglect of doctors’ welfare and the healthcare system, urging FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to take immediate action to prevent a total shutdown of hospitals.

“Doctors have been abandoned projects. Just as the roads are being constructed, the welfare of doctors should be considered by the minister,” he added.

Potential Escalation

The warning strike, which affects major hospitals including Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, and Nyanya, is intended to prompt swift government action. However, ARD FCTA has warned that failure to address their grievances could lead to an indefinite strike.

Public Appeal

The association called on Nigerians to understand their plight and recognize the shared impact of a broken healthcare system. “We are not the enemy. This fight is for all of us. A broken healthcare system affects everyone,” said Dr. Ebong.