Resident doctors go on strike over repeated burglaries at FMC Abeokuta

Resident doctors at the Federal Medical Centre, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Ogun State, have begun a three-day warning strike following a series of security breaches and thefts within the hospital premises.

The industrial action, which began on Thursday, was declared by the management of the facility’s specialist doctors’ association after an emergency general meeting.

Speaking to PLATFORM TIMES, the president of the association, Dr Quadri Olaonipekun, said the decision to suspend services was necessitated by persistent insecurity, which he described as a threat to the lives and property of members.

Olaonipekun disclosed that the latest incident involved an invasion of the House officers’ quarters while doctors were sleeping, with several valuables taken away.

According to a statement jointly signed by the association’s management, items stolen during the attack included five mobile phones, a laptop, cash and a driving licence.

He said the attackers may have used a substance that induced deep sleep, pointing out that none of the doctors involved woke up during the operation.

“We were in our rooms when the accident happened, but no one woke up until everything was taken away. This raises serious concerns about how the operation was carried out,” he said.

The ARD president lamented that the incident was not an isolated one, revealing that the hospital had recorded numerous cases of burglary in recent months.

He cited previous incidents, including the theft of a nurse’s car, the destruction of another vehicle and the loss of $3.5 million belonging to a patient’s relative.

He also noted that several doctors, at different times, had lost personal belongings such as bags within the quarters.

Describing the situation as unacceptable, Olaonipekun called for the immediate review of the hospital’s security architecture, including the removal of current security personnel.

“We believe the entire security structure has failed. Management must take decisive steps, including replacing all security personnel, starting with the Chief Security Officer,” he said.

The association, in its statement, called for the replacement of the current security apparatus with a more competent one, the installation of functioning CCTV cameras, better lighting and the deployment of armed security personnel within the premises.

Other demands include the establishment of a functional police post in or near the neighborhoods and the replacement of all stolen items.

Doctors have warned that members will only resume work after credible measures are put in place to ensure their safety.

“We are not safe. If nothing is done, we may extend the strike beyond the first three days,” Olaonipekun added.

Reacting, the Ogun State Police Command dismissed reports of armed robbery, clarifying that it was a case of burglary and theft.

Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, said doctors reported discovering their flats had been broken into at around 4am, with phones, laptops, cash and other valuables missing.

He added that preliminary investigations showed no evidence of armed robbery, while efforts were underway to arrest those responsible.

‘

Want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need advertising for a product, service or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com

We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Please donate any amount HERE