The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) in the Federal Capital Territory has called off its three-day warning strike, which began on Tuesday over the dismissal of 127 health workers and non-payment of salaries.
The strike, which had drawn attention to grievances over withheld wages and the controversial sackings, was suspended following a virtual emergency meeting held on Wednesday.
According to ARD President, Dr. George Ebong, the decision to end the strike came after authorities met some of the doctors’ demands.
“We called off the warning strike after some of our demands were met. Most of our members have received their unpaid salaries and have been reinstated. We strongly hope that the rest of the members affected are paid by tomorrow to prevent further disruption of work in the health sector,” he said.
Earlier in the week, the association had issued strong demands, including the full reinstatement of all affected personnel, payment of all withheld wages, and the immediate resignation of the Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission, Dr. Emeka Ezeh.
They had threatened to escalate to a full-blown industrial action if no progress was made by Friday.
Dr. Ebong expressed appreciation for the interventions that helped ease the impasse, especially by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his team.
“We strongly hope that the rest of the members affected are paid by tomorrow to prevent further disruption of work in the health sector,” he emphasized.
He also recognized the contributions of key officials.
“We commend Health Mandate Secretary Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe and Chief of Staff Chidi Amadi for their prompt response,” he added.
While the immediate strike has been halted, the ARD noted that some issues remain unresolved.
Dr. Ebong confirmed that the administration has promised to look into the remaining concerns in due course.
