Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commenced a three-day warning strike over unpaid salaries for colleagues employed in 2023. The action, which began on Wednesday, has disrupted medical services across the territory.
At Kubwa General Hospital, patients were turned away as staff cited the strike. The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) in the FCT had earlier issued a 14-day ultimatum to the FCT Minister, which expired on January 6, 2025.
The ARD president, Dr. George Ebong, highlighted key demands, including the payment of the 2024 Medical Residency Training Fund, issuance of skipping letters to 2023 employees, settlement of 13 months of hazard allowance arrears, and immediate payment of the 2024 accoutrements allowance.
“If these issues are not addressed, the strike may escalate into an indefinite action,” insiders warned.
Patients have expressed frustration over the disruption. Mrs. Ihiaka, accompanying her wheelchair-bound daughter, lamented, “We now have no choice but to seek private care, no matter the cost.” She urged the FCT Minister to prioritize the health sector, noting, “Without proper healthcare, infrastructure development loses its value.”
The FCT Permanent Secretary for Health Services, Dr. Babagana Adam, declined to comment on the situation.
