FCT doctors issue 14-day ultimatum to Wike over unresolved demands

The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has issued a stern warning to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, threatening to initiate the “deadliest shutdown” of hospitals in Abuja within 14 days if their longstanding demands remain unresolved.

The association’s president, Dr. George Ebong, made this declaration on Monday during a press conference held at the Wuse District Hospital, Abuja.

While commending the minister’s strides in infrastructural development across the FCT, Ebong highlighted the urgent need for improved welfare and working conditions for doctors, describing them as an “abandoned project” on the brink of extinction due to economic hardship.

Ebong urged the minister to prioritize human capital development alongside infrastructure projects, emphasizing that the health sector’s neglect poses a significant risk to the nation’s healthcare system. Among their demands, the ARD president listed the following:

 “The ongoing neglect of doctors and healthcare workers is alien to the FCT and poses a serious threat to the nation’s health sector,” Ebong stated.

“We cannot continue to function optimally when basic welfare needs are unmet. If this injustice persists, the entire healthcare system in the nation’s capital is at risk of collapse.”

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Ebong reminded the public that the association had previously issued a 21-day ultimatum following its Annual General Meeting last week, leaving just 14 days for the minister to act.

He warned that failure to address their demands would result in a complete shutdown of hospital services in the FCT, potentially leading to loss of lives.

“This is not a step we take lightly,” Ebong explained. “We hope the minister listens to our pleas and takes swift action to avert a crisis that could cripple the health sector.”

While reiterating their appreciation for Wike’s infrastructural efforts, Ebong implored the minister to extend the same urgency and dedication to resolving the doctors’ challenges.

“Doctors are not just workers; we are the backbone of the healthcare system. If we are abandoned, the entire system will crumble.”

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The clock is ticking as the ARD awaits a response from the FCT administration. The outcome of this standoff could determine the fate of healthcare delivery in the nation’s capital.