By Haruna Abdulrashid
The Management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, has reacted to an online video circulating on social media that allegedly portrays poor service delivery at its Emergency Unit.
In a press statement signed by the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Obadiah Gana, the management said it has commenced a thorough investigation into the incident.
“We are aware of the viral video and are taking the matter seriously,” Mr. Gana said. “A preliminary assessment of the Emergency Unit has revealed that contrary to the claims made in the video, there was no shortage of medical consumables such as latex gloves, resuscitation equipment, or essential medications.”
He added that there were sufficient patient transfer tools, including trolleys and wheelchairs, available at the time of the incident.
“Engagement with staff on duty and other relevant stakeholders is ongoing to establish a comprehensive understanding of what transpired,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has directed a full-scale investigation into the matter. “The investigation is still ongoing and its findings will be made public in due course,” the statement added.
Reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to accountability and transparency, Mr. Gana noted, “FMC Abuja operates an open-door policy and has established multiple feedback channels. These include dedicated phone lines displayed throughout the facility, QR codes for anonymous input, and email addresses for direct correspondence.”
He also emphasized the hospital’s continued support for indigent patients. “We run a medical indigent fund that supports underprivileged patients in settling their bills. In many cases, unconscious or unaccompanied patients have been successfully treated and reunited with their families through the efforts of our Social Welfare Department,” he explained.
Mr. Gana highlighted the hospital’s capacity in handling complex medical procedures. “FMC Abuja is a center of excellence in specialized procedures such as open-heart surgery, kidney transplants, laser treatments, and spinal surgeries—services that are not readily available in most public hospitals.”
Concluding the statement, the hospital expressed regret over any distress the incident may have caused the public. “We sincerely apologize for any discomfort this situation may have created. We remain committed to providing quality healthcare services with empathy and compassion,” Mr. Gana assured.
