Government hospitals in Abuja have halted services as members of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), commence a three-day warning strike.
The protest arises from grievances over unpaid salaries, allowances, and unresolved concerns.
Dr George Ebong, President of ARD FCTA, announced the strike on Wednesday, citing the expiration of a three-week ultimatum issued last year.
He criticized the neglect of doctors and healthcare infrastructure in the capital, describing the state of affairs as akin to “abandoned projects.”
Dr Ebong urged FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to take swift action to prevent the strike from escalating into an indefinite shutdown.
He explained that the decision for the warning strike was reached during a congress meeting on Tuesday, with all government hospitals in Abuja, including facilities in Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, and other areas, participating.
Despite repeated discussions with authorities, six months of salary arrears remain unpaid. Dr Ebong called for the minister to prioritize the welfare of healthcare workers, emphasizing its importance alongside ongoing infrastructure projects.
He warned that failure to resolve the issues after the warning strike could lead to a prolonged industrial action, resulting in a complete suspension of medical services in the region.
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