The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jabi, Abuja, has issued a statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding a viral video that allegedly depicted neglect of accident victims at its emergency unit. The hospital confirmed that all victims shown in the video were promptly treated and discharged on the same day, countering claims of negligence. This response comes amid a federal government investigation into the incident, prompted by public outcry over the footage.
According to FMC Abuja, the emergency department was adequately equipped with essential medical supplies, including gloves, resuscitation equipment, medications, trolleys, and wheelchairs at the time of the incident. The hospital’s spokesperson, Obadiah Gana, emphasized that preliminary findings refute allegations made in the video, particularly the claim by a good Samaritan that staff refused to treat victims due to a lack of gloves. The hospital maintains that its staff acted swiftly to stabilize and treat the patients, with the primary victim, who had a head injury, being discharged the same day after successful stabilization.
The viral video, widely shared on social media, showed a good Samaritan expressing frustration after transporting accident victims to FMC Abuja, alleging that medical staff initially refused to provide care. In the footage, one severely injured victim was later seen being assisted into the emergency unit, while others with minor injuries reportedly walked unaided. The video sparked significant public criticism, raising concerns about the quality of emergency care in Nigeria’s public hospitals and prompting the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to order a thorough investigation.
FMC Abuja has highlighted its commitment to transparency and quality service, noting that it operates multiple feedback channels, including phone numbers, QR codes, emails, and WhatsApp groups, to address patient concerns in real time. The hospital also underscored its medical indigent fund, which supports financially challenged patients, and its track record of successfully managing numerous emergency cases, including unconscious patients, with the assistance of social workers. Additionally, FMC Abuja is recognized as a hub for advanced medical procedures, such as open-heart surgery, kidney transplants, laser surgery, and spine corrections, positioning it as a leader in reversing medical tourism in Nigeria.
The federal government’s probe, initiated following the video’s circulation, aims to ascertain the full details of the incident and address any lapses in protocol. FMC Abuja has pledged full cooperation with the investigation, stating that it is reviewing interactions with on-duty staff and other stakeholders. The hospital’s management, led by Dr. Muftau, reiterated its dedication to patient satisfaction, emphasizing that it has never rejected emergency cases, even prior to its enrollment in the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS).
Public reaction to the incident reflects broader concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly the treatment of road accident victims during the critical “golden hour” following a traumatic injury. The government’s recent implementation of the Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme, effective May 5, 2025, entitles victims to cashless treatment up to ₦1.5 lakh per person for seven days at designated hospitals. FMC Abuja, as a key medical facility, is expected to align with this scheme to ensure timely and effective care for accident victims.
The hospital’s response also addressed misconceptions about its operational capacity, noting that it maintains a robust inventory of medical supplies and equipment. Dr. Muftau highlighted the facility’s advanced capabilities, including routine open-heart surgeries and laser treatments for kidney stones and prostate issues, as evidence of its commitment to high-quality care. The hospital has called for calm and urged the public to rely on verified information as the investigation progresses.
