The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, has appointed Timothy Samaila, a neurosurgeon, as the new Head of its Accident and Emergency Unit.
The appointment follows the outcome of an investigation into a viral video that alleged the neglect of accident victims at the facility.
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The Medical Director of FMC, Saad Ahmed, announced the appointment in a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja.
The statement, titled “Findings of the Investigative Panel on Staff Response to Accident Victims at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja Following a Viral Video Seen on Social Media,” detailed the centre’s response to the 6 June incident.
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PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that victims of a road accident were reportedly left unattended by the hospital personnel after being brought in by a good Samaritan.
In a video widely circulated on social media, the individual who transported the victims to the hospital alleged that staff refused to provide immediate medical care, with one reportedly citing a lack of gloves.
In response, the Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako ordered a full investigation of the incident which the hospital said is ongoing.
The hospital’s Head of Clinical Services, Bioku Muftau, earlier confirmed that eight of its staff members—including four doctors, two nurses, and two attendants—were under investigation for alleged professional negligence.
Mr Ahmed, the Medical Director said the hospital was made aware of the incident via social media and, in line with its complaint-handling protocols, set up an impartial investigative panel.
“The panel thoroughly examined the incident, and appropriate measures have been taken based on its findings,” he stated.
He added that Samaila’s appointment is part of broader reforms to improve trauma response, enhance staff readiness, and strengthen emergency medicine training at the hospital.
Mr Ahmed clarified that the three accident victims seen in the video were treated and discharged in stable condition on the same day.
He also confirmed that there was no shortage of medical supplies at the time, as established by the panel.
READ ALSO: Eight staffers under probe over alleged neglect of accident victims – FMC Abuja
“For transparency and professional accountability, some staff members on duty during the incident have been referred to the Senior Staff Disciplinary Committee, in line with Public Service Rules,” he said.
Additionally, Mr Ahmed announced new collaborations with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and the Medical Association of Nigerians Across Great Britain (MANSAG) to implement global best practices in emergency care.
He encouraged patients and the public to use the hospital’s official feedback and complaints platforms, which are clearly displayed at all service points.
“Using these platforms ensures prompt attention, enhances patient satisfaction, and helps avoid incidents that may escalate into harassment of healthcare workers.
“We acknowledge the concerns raised by the public and reaffirm our commitment to maintaining and improving the high-quality services FMC Abuja is known for,” he added.
(NAN)
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