The healthcare system within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has been severely impacted as the indefinite doctors’ strike initiated by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) entered its fifth day on Tuesday. The industrial action has brought essential medical services to a grinding halt, leaving countless patients in distress and creating a mounting crisis across the capital.
Abuja Hospitals Deserted: Patients Left Without Care
A comprehensive assessment of major hospitals in Abuja revealed a stark reality: consulting rooms and wards were nearly empty, with only a skeletal staff of nurses and consultants attempting to manage the influx of patients. At key facilities like Wuse and Asokoro District Hospitals, individuals were observed waiting for hours without receiving medical attention, while many others were regretfully turned away. Ruth Onyema, whose son was suffering from malaria, expressed her anguish, stating, “We’ve been here since morning, but no doctor is around. I can’t afford a private hospital.” A nurse at Asokoro Hospital confirmed the overwhelming situation, noting, “We’re overwhelmed, and patients are getting agitated.” Similar scenes unfolded at Kubwa General Hospital, where the typically bustling emergency ward lay deserted. Yakubu Isah, a post-surgery patient seeking a follow-up, lamented, “I came for follow-up after surgery, but they said no doctor is around.”
NARD's Unyielding Stance: Demands for Better Conditions
Dr. Muhammad Suleiman, President of NARD, unequivocally stated that the strike will persist until all 19 of their outstanding demands are met. These critical demands include the payment of long-standing unpaid arrears, the implementation of the 25/35 percent CONMESS salary review, resolution of promotion and upgrade arrears, and the disbursement of accoutrement allowances – some of which have been pending for over five years. The union's firm position highlights deep-seated grievances within the medical community, emphasizing the need for improved working conditions and remuneration to ensure the welfare of resident doctors and, by extension, the quality of patient care.
Urgent Appeals for Government Intervention to Avert Further Crisis
The impact of the strike reverberated beyond the major district hospitals, affecting facilities like Abaji, Kwali, and Kuje general hospitals, where wards and emergency units were largely closed. Many patients, including Mrs. Rebecca Benjamin, who sought treatment for a fever, arrived unaware of the strike, only to be turned back. Mrs. Abimbola Surajudeen voiced her frustration after being informed of the strike upon bringing her son for medical care, necessitating a trip to a private clinic. Even in the Gwagwalada Area Council, where there is no general hospital apart from a township clinic, medical activities were paralyzed. Patients seeking care were turned back after being informed of the strike. Mrs. Fatima Ibrahim, who brought her daughter from Dagiri, said she only received help from a nurse who prescribed basic medication. Relatives of affected patients have issued urgent appeals to the Federal Government to swiftly resolve the impasse, underscoring the severe hardship the prolonged strike is inflicting on ordinary Nigerians who rely on public healthcare services. The escalating crisis calls for immediate dialogue and resolution to restore essential medical care.