The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has initiated a three-day warning strike due to unpaid salaries, allowances, and other unmet demands. This strike has disrupted operations at government hospitals across Abuja.
In a press briefing held on Wednesday, Dr. George Ebong, President of ARD FCTA, explained that the strike follows the expiration of a three-week ultimatum issued last year, which had not led to any resolution. Dr. Ebong expressed frustration over the neglect of both hospitals and the welfare of doctors in the nation’s capital, describing the doctors as “abandoned projects.”
He called on the Minister of FCT, Nyesome Wike, to intervene to prevent a longer, indefinite strike that could paralyze hospital services. The decision to proceed with the warning strike came after a meeting of ARD members on Tuesday.
“This strike is affecting all government hospitals in Abuja, from Wuse to Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, Nyanya, and more. We gave the government a three-week ultimatum to address our demands.
Despite multiple meetings and the government requesting an additional two weeks, no progress has been made, including the settlement of six months’ worth of unpaid arrears,” Dr. Ebong stated.
He emphasized that doctors in Abuja have been left unsupported, much like neglected infrastructure projects, and urged the Minister of FCT to prioritize their welfare. He warned that if no action is taken following the three-day warning strike, the doctors will consider escalating to an indefinite strike.
In December 2024, ARD FCTA had already warned of a potential shutdown if their demands were not met.
