Sounding the Alarm: FCT Doctors Stage a Three-Day Warning Strike
Medical Professionals of Federal College of Technology (FCT) Launch Warning Strike and Give Governor Wike a Deadline - FCT Doctors Express Outrage Over Decision Perceived as Inhumane
In response to the拿下 of 127 medical professionals by the FCT Civil Service Commission on May 6, 2025, The Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has called for a three-day demonstration of dissent. This decision was reached during a late-night emergency congress meeting, held at the Asokoro District Hospital, Abuja.
Speaking after the heated debate, Dr. George Ebong, the president of FCT ARD, wasted no time in stating his disdain for the out-of-the-blue termination of employment. He labelled the mass firing as "inhumane and unlawful," demanding swift reinstatement for those impacted and immediate payment of their unpaid salaries from April.
But that's not all. Ebong also called for the resignation of FCT-CSC's chairman, Emeka Ezeh. If their demands aren't met by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the FCT Administration prior to Friday, May 9, the peaceful protest will turn into an indefinite strike, causing the shutdown of countless Abuja hospitals.
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Despite losing their April wages without any warning, these professionals continue to dedicate their time and skills to ensuring the proper functioning of FCT hospitals. If indeed these employees are ghost workers or absconders, one must question the functionality of these hospitals, which seemingly can't operate without them.
"We demand payment for the withheld April salaries of all affected healthcare workers. We need an official apology to rectify the damage done to their reputations. We require Mr. Emeka Ezeh's resignation. And most importantly, we are striking for three days starting Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 8 am. If our conditions aren't met within the stipulated timeframe, we will extend our strike to an indefinite period," Ebong declared.
- The three-day strike by the Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, highlights the urgency for policy-and-legislation changes in the health-and-wellness sector of Nigeria, specifically in the area of workplace-wellness.
- The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the FCT Administration are under pressure to address the mental-health concerns and complex issues arising from the mass dismissal of 127 medical professionals.
- This widespread strike is not only a general-news topic but also a significant concern for the overall health conditions in Nigeria, particularly due to the potential impact on science-related fields in healthcare.
- In light of these events, there is a growing need for a more systematic approach to health policy-and-legislation to ensure fair employment practices and protect the well-being of healthcare workers.
- The association's call for the resignation of FCT-CSC's chairman, Emeka Ezeh, may be a step towards fostering a healthier and more cooperative workplace environment in Nigerian hospitals.
- As the strike proceeds, media outlets across Naija (Nigeria) should prioritize covering this important issue, focusing on the demands made by the healthcare workers and the response from the government.
- In the midst of the strike, it's worth considering the long-term ramifications of such disruptions in the health sector and the potential consequences they may have on the overall well-being of the Nigerian population.
