Abuja Doctors Issue Ultimatum to Wike, Threaten Shutdown

Doctors in Abuja have issued a two-week ultimatum to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, demanding the resolution of several grievances. The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), in a statement by its president, Dr. George Ebong, warned that failure to address their concerns would result in a shutdown of medical services in the nation’s capital.

While commending Wike’s efforts to improve infrastructure in Abuja, Dr. Ebong criticized the treatment of doctors, likening them to “abandoned projects.” He expressed concern that neglecting the welfare of medical practitioners could lead to the collapse of Nigeria’s health sector.

Highlighting their demands, the ARD president called for the immediate payment of six months’ salary arrears owed to doctors employed in 2023. He also urged Wike to expedite the payment of the 2024 Medical Residency Training Fund and to review the bonding policy, suggesting a reduction from six years to two years.

Other requests included the implementation of skipping allowances for newly employed members, the immediate payment of the 2024 accouterment allowance, and the settlement of outstanding 13-month hazard allowance arrears. The doctors also called for faster promotion processes for resident doctors to consultant positions and the recruitment of more healthcare workers to address manpower shortages in FCT hospitals.

Dr. Ebong reiterated that the association had already issued a 21-day ultimatum during its Annual General Meeting last week, leaving only 14 days for the government to act. While expressing optimism that Wike could address the issues, he warned of the dire consequences of inaction, describing the potential shutdown as “deadly” and likely to result in the loss of lives.

The ARD urged the minister to act promptly to prevent a crisis in Abuja’s healthcare system.