FCT Resident Doctors Launch Indefinite Strike Over Unmet Demands

Resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have begun an indefinite strike starting Monday, September 15, 2025, after accusing the government of neglecting their long-standing demands.

The Association of Resident Doctors, FCTA (ARD-FCTA), confirmed the action in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Agbor Affiong, following an Emergency General Meeting held on September 14.

“This action follows the failure of management to address any of our legitimate demands, even after a one-week warning strike,” the statement read.

The doctors insisted they would not return to work until both the government and hospital management show “genuine commitment to the welfare of doctors and the health of FCT residents.”

Just last week, the association staged a seven-day warning strike over unpaid entitlements, poor welfare packages, and acute manpower shortages. Members say the issues are straining the morale and health of medical workers.

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief last Tuesday, ARD-FCTA Chairman, Dr. George Ebong, warned that an indefinite strike was inevitable if “meaningful dialogue” was not initiated.

“We have 14 district and general hospitals in the FCT, yet there is a severe shortage of doctors and specialists. In many cases, one doctor is left to attend to more than 30 or 40 patients and may perform up to 10 caesarean sections,” Ebong explained.

He added that the FCT requires at least 200 additional doctors but currently falls far short, forcing some doctors onto antidepressants and antihypertensive medications due to stress.

The ARD-FCTA maintained that the strike would continue until concrete steps are taken to resolve their grievances.

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