Doctors’ Strike: Reps Intervene, FCTA Recants On Sack Threat
BY EDMOND ODOK, ABUJA – Authorities of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have withdrawn a circular, directing members of FCTA chapter of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to resume work within 48 hours or consider their appointments terminated with immediate effect.
The withdrawal of the sack threat followed interventions from the House of Representatives through its House Committee on Health Services.
Special Adviser on media to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Lanre Lasisi, said in a statement that the development was an outcome of a meeting involving the House’s Health Services Committee, led by its chairman, Hon Tanko Sununu; officials of FCTA; and the leadership of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Abuja on Friday.
He said the meeting also resolved to set up a Committee of five persons, comprising a member of NMA; two members of NARD, FCT Chapter; and two FCTA officials, to consider issues of payment to doctors and report back to the House shortly.
Similarly, it was further resolved that FCT Administration should mobilise funds from alternative sources for flat rate payment to 36 Doctors who have not been paid between six and seven months pending when the issue is fully resolved.
Speaking at the meeting, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), President, Dr Francis Faduyile, informed the House Committee that the national body has already directed all members on strike to resume duties at their posts while negotiations continue with the FCTA on behalf of the striking doctors.
He expressed gratitude to the National Assembly, especially the House of Representatives, for the proactive measures and intervention in the matter.
According to him, the lawmakers’ responsiveness in handling the situation would go along way in ensuring the current national emergency regarding Covid-19 is well contained across the country.
