NIGERIA: FMC Abuja Reacts To Viral Video On Staff Conduct

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Jabi, Abuja, has responded to a viral video showing what appeared to be a lack of urgency by staff at its emergency unit.

The video, which has been circulating on Facebook, was captured by an unidentified man who brought an accident victim to the hospital for emergency care.

In the footage, a nurse was seen refusing to assist in moving the victim from the car into the hospital.

She could be heard telling the man it was not her duty to transfer the patient, and later claimed there were no gloves available to handle the situation.

Meanwhile, the man could be heard challenging the hospital staff, while expressing anger at the delay.

He threatened to share the video widely and call on authorities, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, to intervene and address the staff shortage.

However, after about five minutes of argument, two other men finally showed up to move the injured man into the hospital.

Reacting to the incident the FMC released a preliminary statement on Sunday.

In the statement signed by Obadiah N. K. Gana, Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Medical Director, the hospital management acknowledged the video and confirmed that a full investigation is underway.

“We have been made aware of an online video that negatively depicts our hospital. In response, we have initiated a thorough investigation to uncover the facts surrounding this incident,” it said.

According to the hospital, medical supplies such as latex gloves were available in the emergency department at the time.

It further highlighted that there was no shortage of transfer equipment like trolleys and wheelchairs.

“The emergency department had an adequate supply of medical consumables, including latex gloves, contrary to the claims made in the video. Resuscitation equipment and medications were sufficient.

“There was no shortage of patient transfer equipment, including trolleys and wheelchairs. Interaction with staff on duty & other stakeholders is currently ongoing,” the hospital said.

It also noted that the staff involved in the incident are being interviewed as part of the investigation.

The hospital also promised to release a full report to the public once investigations are concluded.

FMC Abuja reiterated its commitment to transparency and patient care.

It highlighted ongoing support services such as feedback lines, QR code channels, and email communication for patients and their families.

The hospital also mentioned its indigent fund, used to support patients who cannot afford medical bills.

FMC Abuja serves as a centre for major medical procedures including open-heart surgeries, laser treatments, kidney transplants, and spinal surgeries.

The management apologized for any distress caused by the incident and assured the public of improved service delivery.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has reportedly directed a comprehensive probe into the matter.

The video has sparked outrage on Facebook, with many Nigerians expressing disappointment over what they described as poor service delivery and a decaying healthcare system.

Chinwe Ahu wrote, “It is sha not her Job to extract a patient from a vehicle. It is the Job of a first responder or a paramedic. However we know there are not paramedics or first responders in Nigeria. So typically, the man who brought the patient stands as the first responder, although the nurse can also chip in.”

On the matter of hand gloves, she added, “I have never worked in any hospital in Abuja, but in all places I have worked, the patients are responsible for providing hand gloves. However I must admit that the nurses here possess a lackadaisical attitude towards this situation… But you can’t blame them, the government does not make provisions for patients who have no resources.”

Segi Olola reacted to the frustration of the man in the video by quoting him: “I like the guy! ‘I’ve done my best treat them or kee them’.”

Rahila Maishanu commented, “Chai, this is sad. Our healthcare system is something else. Most people die in this country due to medical negligence and nothing more. An accident victim instead of stretcher see how they are carrying him. Sack them now they will start crying. Don’t go into the medical and healthcare profession if you are not ready for the blood and gore.”

As Nigerians await the outcome of the investigation, the incident continues to raise important questions about the state of emergency care and staff attitude in public health facilities.