Resident doctors at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun State, have embarked on a three-day warning strike following a recent burglary at the House Officers' Quarters located within the hospital premises.
Strike Decision
In a communiqué issued after a meeting, the doctors unanimously agreed to temporarily withdraw services to protest what they termed ongoing security failures that continue to put healthcare workers and their property at risk. The communiqué was jointly signed by the President of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Dr. Olanipekun Quadri Arisekola, and the Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Alawode.
Burglary Incident
The industrial action followed a recent burglary at the House Officers' Quarters, during which several personal items belonging to medical personnel were allegedly stolen. The doctors listed the stolen properties as five mobile phones, a laptop, cash, and a driver's license. They urgently called on management to act swiftly and prevent recurrence.
Security Concerns
The doctors noted in the communiqué addressed to the Medical Director of FMC, Abeokuta, that the incident reflected persistent security shortcomings within the hospital premises, posing a serious risk to their safety and overall well-being. The health workers said the incident raised concerns among members, particularly those living within the hospital quarters who rely on management for safety and security.
They expressed dissatisfaction over what they described as recurring security lapses and the lack of adequate measures to curb criminal activities within the hospital premises. The doctors divulged that due to the recurrence, members decided to begin a three-day warning strike from June 4 to June 6, 2026, while awaiting concrete assurances from management regarding immediate actions to improve security and address their concerns.
Demands
The doctors called for the implementation of routine security patrols, especially at night when the risk of criminal incidents is typically higher. Other demands in the communiqué include:
- Replacement of all belongings stolen from affected members during the recent burglary.
- Discontinuation of the services of the existing security outfit and engagement of a more capable and efficient security provider to ensure protection of lives and property.
- Creation of a fully operational police post manned by serving police personnel either within the residential quarters or in its immediate vicinity.
They advocated for the construction or strengthening of perimeter fencing around the quarters to prevent unauthorized entry and enhance access control. The medical practitioners added that immediate measures were required to rebuild the confidence of healthcare workers and avert similar incidents in the future.
As the strike continues, the health workers maintained their commitment to a positive working relationship with hospital management, noting that healthcare workers' welfare and security are vital to quality patient care.
