The Federal Government has ordered a full-scale investigation into an incident involving the alleged neglect of road accident victims at the Emergency Unit of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, following a viral video that sparked public outrage over the weekend.
The disturbing footage, widely shared across social media platforms, was recorded by a good Samaritan who claimed to have rescued the victims from a roadside accident and transported them to the hospital.
According to him, the victims were left unattended for several minutes upon arrival at the emergency unit.
In the video, a member of staff of the hospital was heard stating that gloves were unavailable, a claim that appeared to hinder immediate medical attention.
However, subsequent scenes showed hospital personnel assisting at least one of the severely injured victims into the facility, while others were seen limping or supporting themselves as they entered the emergency area.
One of the victims who had a broken head was left in the car in a distressing condition while the nurses on duty complained of absence of hand gloves.
Reacting to the incident, the Public Relations Officer of FMC Abuja, Obadiah Gana, confirmed in a statement that the hospital had commenced a comprehensive internal investigation.
He also disclosed that the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, had ordered a full probe, with findings to be made public upon conclusion.
“Preliminary checks indicate that the emergency department had sufficient medical supplies, including gloves, resuscitation equipment, and medications,” Gana said.
“There were also no reported shortages of trolleys or wheelchairs at the time of the incident.”
According to the statement, interactions are ongoing with the on-duty staff and other stakeholders to determine the sequence of events and clarify any lapses.
The hospital emphasized its commitment to transparency and patient welfare, noting the availability of multiple feedback channels including public phone lines, QR codes, and email—for patients and relatives to report concerns.
FMC Abuja also highlighted its role as a tertiary referral centre offering advanced medical services such as open-heart surgeries, kidney transplants, spinal procedures, and laser surgeries—interventions rarely available in most government-owned hospitals.
“We sincerely regret any distress or discomfort caused by this incident. We take public feedback seriously and are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care.
“The hospital runs an indigent patient fund to assist those unable to pay and has successfully managed numerous cases of unconscious or unidentified patients, ensuring their safe handover to families.” The statement read
