The Federal Government has initiated a formal investigation into a viral video that allegedly shows the neglect of accident victims at the Emergency Unit of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja.
The footage, which spread rapidly across social media platforms, sparked public outrage and raised questions about the responsiveness of emergency healthcare services in the country.
The video was recorded by a good Samaritan who claimed he rescued the victims from the scene of a road accident and transported them to FMC Jabi for urgent medical attention.
According to his narration, upon arrival at the hospital, the victims were not promptly attended to. He alleged that some staff members refused to render immediate assistance, with one citing the unavailability of gloves as a reason for the delay.
However, the footage later captured some hospital staff assisting in lifting one of the severely injured victims into the emergency unit. Despite their apparent injuries, other victims were seen making their way into the facility on their own, struggling to walk.
In response to the public outcry, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Obadiah Gana, released a statement on Sunday confirming that a comprehensive internal investigation had commenced.
He emphasized that preliminary findings revealed the emergency department was adequately stocked with essential medical supplies, including gloves, resuscitation equipment, medications, trolleys, and wheelchairs.
Gana reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to transparency, quality healthcare delivery, and patient engagement. “FMC Abuja maintains a robust open-door policy with multiple feedback mechanisms in place, including prominently displayed phone numbers, QR codes, and email contacts to facilitate communication between the hospital and the public,” he stated.
He also noted that the Honorable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has ordered a full investigation into the incident. “The investigation is currently ongoing, and the findings will be made public upon completion,” the hospital assured.
Addressing concerns about its capacity and service quality, the hospital highlighted its role as a referral centre for advanced medical procedures such as open-heart surgery, kidney transplants, laser surgery, and spinal interventions—services that are not readily available in most public healthcare facilities across the country.
Additionally, the statement referenced the hospital’s efforts to support economically disadvantaged patients. “We run a medical indigent fund to assist patients who cannot afford their hospital bills. Our social workers have successfully facilitated the treatment and safe discharge of numerous unconscious patients,” it added.
The hospital concluded by expressing regret over the incident and any distress it may have caused. “We sincerely apologize for any discomfort experienced. Feedback is deeply valued, and we are committed to continuous service improvement. We remain devoted to delivering quality healthcare with empathy and compassion,” the statement read.
