The Federal Government has ordered a full investigation into allegations of negligence by health workers at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, following a viral video that sparked widespread criticism.

The hospital management has also launched a probe to uncover the facts surrounding the incident. The controversy arose after a video surfaced online showing nurses at the hospital’s emergency unit allegedly refusing to assist accident victims brought in by a good Samaritan. In the footage, the health workers insisted that the man who brought the victims must carry a critically injured patient from his car into the emergency ward, citing a lack of gloves as their reason for inaction.

The good Samaritan, visibly frustrated, told the nurses, “You people should bring him out; it is your duty to bring him out. I don’t know any of them; I saw them on the road and decided to bring them to the hospital.

That is all I can do; it is an emergency.” Despite his repeated pleas, the nurses allegedly remained nonchalant for over 15 minutes, ignoring warnings that they were being recorded. Eventually, a wheelchair was brought, and two men wheeled the patient into the ward.

In response, the hospital issued a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Obadiah Gana, on behalf of the Medical Director. The statement noted that preliminary findings revealed the emergency department had sufficient medical supplies, including gloves, resuscitation equipment, and patient transfer tools such as trolleys and wheelchairs.

“We have been made aware of an online video that negatively depicts our hospital,” Gana said. “In response, we have initiated a thorough investigation to uncover the facts surrounding this incident. The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has also directed a full investigation. Findings will be made available to the public.”

Gana highlighted the hospital’s achievements, including specialised surgeries and support for underprivileged patients. He apologised for any distress caused, adding, “We value the trust placed in us and are committed to providing quality care with empathy and compassion.”