…Residents Recount Harrowing Experiences at FMC
… Long-standing Complaints, Public Outrage, Call for Reassessment
…CDHR Demands Immediate Withdrawal of Award, Investigation
The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, has come under intense criticism following its recent recognition as the “Best Customer Friendly and Environmentally Clean Hospital” in Nigeria by the Federal Government.
The award, announced in a letter dated November 12, 2024, and signed by Abdul Ali E-Zaki on behalf of the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has sparked outrage among Ogun residents and human rights advocates, who describe it as “undeserved” and out of touch with reality.
… Residents Share Harrowing Experiences
Residents of Ogun State, many of whom are regular users of FMC Abeokuta, have recounted negative experiences with the hospital, citing issues such as negligence, overcrowding, long waiting times, and insufficient medical supplies.
Olalekan Ogunbanjo, who lost his brother due to alleged negligence at the hospital, described the award as “a slap in the face” to patients who have suffered.
“My brother was admitted for minor surgery, but due to the hospital’s incompetence, he didn’t make it.
This award undermines the pain and suffering of countless families. How can a facility riddled with such issues be celebrated?” he said.
Another resident, Taiwo Adeneye, criticized the hospital’s inadequacies, particularly its overcrowded wards and insufficient supplies.
“This award is completely out of touch with reality. The conditions at FMC Abeokuta do not reflect excellence in customer service or cleanliness,” he argued.
Similarly, Bunmi Sunday, another resident, questioned the evaluation criteria for the award, demanding transparency in the selection process.
“What metrics were used to assess FMC Abeokuta? The government needs to clarify how such a decision was made, especially when the public experience paints a different picture,” Sunday said.
… CDHR Demands Withdrawal and Investigation
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has condemned the award, describing it as misleading and a misrepresentation of the healthcare challenges faced by Nigerians.
In a statement, CDHR National Vice President Yinka Folarin called for the immediate withdrawal of the award and a probe into the selection process.
“This award does not align with the reality of FMC Abeokuta, where negligence, dereliction of duty, and an unfriendly work environment are rampant. Patients and their families have suffered extensively, and recognizing this facility for excellence is an affront to their experiences,” Folarin said.
The CDHR also called for accountability from the Ministry of Health, alleging possible complicity in the award process.
… Long-standing Complaints and Public Outrage
FMC Abeokuta has faced numerous complaints over the years, ranging from negligence to poor service delivery. In one instance, the family of late Samuel Okuneye accused the hospital of gross negligence, which they claimed led to his death.
His sister, Olubukola Okuneye, recounted delays in securing a bed for Samuel, despite his critical condition, and the abrupt removal of a life-sustaining drip during his treatment.
Cases of physical confrontations between patients’ families and healthcare workers have also been reported. In 2022, a father and son assaulted a doctor and nurse after losing a family member, while another man attacked a doctor with a chair following the death of his 15-month-old daughter, citing delays in treatment.
… Call for Reassessment
Residents and advocacy groups have urged the Federal Government to reassess the award and ensure that such recognitions are based on transparent and comprehensive evaluations.
“We need healthcare awards that reflect the lived realities of patients, not politically influenced decisions that disregard systemic issues,” Folarin added.
As the controversy deepens, stakeholders are calling for an independent investigation into the selection process for the award and for immediate reforms to address the longstanding challenges at FMC Abeokuta.
