FMC: NARD, others worry as theft, vandalism, assault force doctors away from wards
Rising Security Concerns Prompt Strike at Federal Medical Centre in Abeokuta
Abeokuta, Nigeria — Federal Medical Centres (FMCs) across Nigeria are increasingly grappling with alarming incidents of theft, vandalism, and violence against medical personnel. The situation reached a tipping point at FMC Idi Aba in Abeokuta last month when resident doctors initiated a three-day withdrawal of services, beginning June 4.
Typically a bustling hub of activity, the hospital was left with only consultants and non-resident medical officers attending to emergencies as resident doctors protested what they described as an untenable security situation. Their industrial action was not a demand for better pay or improved equipment but a plea for personal safety amid ongoing threats.
The crisis began with a break-in at the House Officers’ Quarters, which is intended to provide rest for weary doctors. Criminals allegedly evaded hospital security, stealing laptops, cash, mobile phones, and crucial documents.
Dr. Olanipekun Arise-Kola, president of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at FMC Abeokuta, announced the strike during an emergency meeting. He stressed that the security breach underscored a deeper, persistent problem—the safety of healthcare workers within their workplace.
The ARD issued a communiqué detailing their concerns, which included the theft of personal belongings during the incident and warning of severe lapses in security that jeopardize both lives and property of medical staff. The statement regarded the current security measures as insufficient and called for prompt action from hospital management.
To end the strike, the physicians demanded immediate restitution for the stolen items, significant enhancements to security protocols, and the replacement of the hospital’s current security service provider. Additional requests included the installation of functional CCTV cameras, deployment of armed security personnel, and the establishment of a nearby police post staffed by active officers.
Despite these demands, Dr. Arise-Kola stated that no action had been taken by hospital management as of recent conversations. “We have made our specific demands, but there has been no follow-up,” he noted. “We want adequate security to ensure our safety.”
A source within the hospital, speaking anonymously, commented that the theft incident highlighted ongoing issues of professional burnout among resident doctors, who had previously expressed concern about chronic fatigue without receiving adequate support.
The issues at FMC Abeokuta are emblematic of a broader national crisis in healthcare facilities across Nigeria, where medical workers face not only security vulnerabilities but also rising instances of assault. In a troubling report, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors indicated that at least 30 resident doctors faced assaults in the past year, with only a handful of cases leading to court action.
In a separate incident earlier this year, a medical doctor at FMC Owo in Ondo State was physically attacked during a shift, prompting similar strikes from local doctors concerned about their safety.
Dr. Titilola Sarah Ibiyemi, Chief Medical Director of FMC Abeokuta, acknowledged the growing problem of theft and vandalism in the hospital and called for a more robust security presence. Following the recent strikes, both the hospital and the Ogun State Police Department have committed to increased collaboration to improve security measures.
The Ogun State Police Command has reported ongoing investigations into the break-ins and increased patrol efforts to ensure the safety of staff and patients at the hospital.
As tensions persist, the focus remains squarely on creating a safer environment for healthcare providers, who are increasingly voicing concerns over their ability to provide care under the current circumstances.
