Striking resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senate President Godswill Akpabio to experience firsthand the challenging conditions in public hospitals by using them for their healthcare needs.
George Ebong, President of the resident doctors in the FCT, made this call during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, where he said, "If we are serious about fixing the healthcare system, every government official should use public hospitals. Let's begin with that."
He continued, "I want to see the minister use Wuse General Hospital. I want to see the Senate President at Maitama General Hospital. I want the Speaker to visit Iyanya General Hospital. Only then can we begin to address the system's issues. If they don’t use these hospitals, fixing the system will remain impossible."
The doctors began a three-day warning strike on Wednesday, citing unpaid salaries and allowances, among other grievances, after a three-week ultimatum passed without resolution. The strike has halted operations across government hospitals in Abuja, from Wuse to Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, Nyanya, and beyond.
Ebong accused Wike and other government officials of neglecting the capital’s healthcare system and workers’ welfare. Despite Wike’s focus on infrastructure projects, such as road construction, Ebong criticized the lack of attention to health facilities, many of which are in poor condition.
"We are the neglected sector," Ebong said. "While the minister focuses on roads and bridges, the hospitals should be the priority. These are sacred institutions that cannot be overlooked."
He also highlighted the severe challenges faced by healthcare workers and patients, including inconsistent electricity, inadequate medical supplies, malfunctioning diagnostic equipment, and understaffed hospitals. He noted that some hospitals are managed by a single doctor, overburdened with responsibilities.
Ebong also addressed the issue of unpaid salaries, with some doctors still awaiting payment for six months’ worth of wages despite their hard work and added responsibilities. He emphasized that while they have met with Wike’s subordinates, they have yet to receive direct communication from him.
"The minister has been busy with projects, but we urge him to pay attention to the hospitals. He needs to visit these facilities and see the deplorable conditions for himself," Ebong urged.
The association has warned that if the situation remains unresolved after the warning strike, they will consider further action, including a full-scale shutdown
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