The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has taken a resolute position against the ongoing indefinite strike by resident doctors in FCTA hospitals, affirming that he will not be coerced or deterred from advancing vital infrastructure projects within the city.
During the inauguration of the Arterial Road N1 construction, stretching from Wuye District to Ring Road II on Thursday, the Minister confronted the strike directly, characterizing it as a politically motivated maneuver rather than a legitimate protest.
“The SSS contacted me, and there were claims that protests would erupt because we are focusing on road development instead of healthcare. I spoke with the director and said, ‘Protests are allowed everywhere.’ No one will intimidate me or prevent me from doing what is necessary at the right moment,” Wike stated.
“This is not just my project or President Tinubu’s; it’s a road designed to stimulate economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents. It’s not a special privilege for us alone to use it,” he added.
Responding to allegations that his administration prioritizes roadworks over medical services, Wike revealed that the health sector’s budget for 2025 stands at N25 billion, underscoring the government’s commitment to healthcare funding.
He attributed delays in addressing doctors’ concerns-such as unpaid allowances and insufficient staffing-to bureaucratic hurdles, noting that the FCTA only secured budget approval from the National Assembly in July.
Regarding the doctors’ demands, Wike emphasized that solutions are in progress but must adhere to established protocols. “If the Permanent Secretary of the Treasury submits the bill for the allowances, what reason do I have to withhold it? Payments will be made, but everything follows a process,” he explained.
He further accused certain political figures within the civil service of instigating the strike for their own agendas, cautioning that their efforts would be futile. “I am aware that some civil servants are being influenced by political leaders to encourage this strike. You are wasting your time. We have been involved in politics long enough to see through this,” he remarked.
Wike challenged the striking doctors to proceed with their planned protests but made it clear that such actions would not disrupt government functions. “If you intend to demonstrate and block roads, I told the SSS director to permit the demonstration, but no one will stop me from carrying out this event today-not a single person. Enough is enough,” he declared.
Concluding his address, the Minister reaffirmed his willingness to engage in dialogue, insisting that discussions must occur through proper channels. “We will meet and resolve these issues-that is the correct approach,” he affirmed.
