Hospitals across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were thrown into disarray on Monday as doctors under the Association of Resident Doctors in the FCT Administration (ARD-FCTA) commenced an indefinite strike, forcing facilities to discharge patients, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly.
The action follows the expiration of a seven-day warning strike declared last week, after months of unresolved negotiations with the FCTA management.
In a communiqué signed by ARD-FCTA President, Dr. George Ebong, and General Secretary, Dr. Agbor Affiong, the doctors said their demands—including payment of salary arrears owed since 2023, recruitment of new staff, settlement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, and correction of irregular salary payments—have not been met despite repeated engagements with the authorities.
Other demands include promotion timelines, conversion of Fellows to the Consultant cadre, payment of hazard and wage award arrears, and urgent renovation of hospitals to acceptable standards.
“Congress unanimously resolved to embark on an indefinite strike action commencing 8:00 a.m., Monday, 15th September 2025, until the government and management demonstrate genuine commitment to making health in the FCT a priority,” the communiqué read.
Patients stranded, wards shut down
A visit by Hobnob News to Wuse, Asokoro, and Maitama District Hospitals revealed scores of stranded patients. Many complained of being discharged or denied care as a result of the strike.
At Wuse District Hospital, Mrs. Juliet Chima said she paid N8,000 for her daughter’s treatment but could not see a doctor.
“I don’t know what to do. Going to a private clinic is expensive, and I can’t afford it. My daughter was supposed to resume school today, but she’s still in pain,” she lamented.
Similarly, a 69-year-old man, Mr. Osadolor, said he had been turned back multiple times.
“I always run medical check-ups before my birthday. This year seems impossible. I pray the government listens to them,” he said.
Expectant mothers were among those most affected. Several pregnant women told Hobnob News that their appointments were cancelled, while wards—including female medical, gynaecology, surgical, and paediatric units—were locked.
At Asokoro District Hospital, Mr. Obinna, who accompanied his wife for an antenatal appointment, appealed to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to intervene:
“I believe the minister can address the demands. He should do the needful before lives are lost.”
In Maitama District Hospital, discharged patients included those from the labour ward and ante/post-natal units. Only a single consultant was seen attending to patients at the General Outpatient Department.
A frustrated mother of twins, Mrs. Ojuolape Abe, said her children were left unattended:
“They just told me doctors are on strike and there’s nothing they can do.”
Call for urgent resolution
Patients and caregivers warned that prolonged disruption could worsen health outcomes and lead to preventable deaths. They urged the FCTA to engage with the striking doctors and prioritise healthcare delivery in the nation’s capital.
