FMC Abuja has appointed a new A&E Head after viral video sparked reform.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja has appointed Dr. Timothy Samaila, a consultant neurosurgeon, as the new Head of its Accident and Emergency (A&E) Unit following a public outcry over the alleged neglect of accident victims.
This development comes in response to the findings of an investigative panel set up after a viral video surfaced on June 6, showing victims of a road accident left unattended at the hospital’s emergency unit. The footage, which quickly circulated on social media, triggered outrage nationwide and prompted the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, to order a thorough investigation.
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In a statement on Wednesday, the Medical Director of FMC Abuja, Prof. Saad Ahmed, confirmed the appointment and outlined steps the hospital has taken to address the incident. 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”, emphasized the centre’s commitment to accountability and reform.
Prof. Ahmed noted that the hospital’s leadership was first alerted to the incident via social media and promptly activated its internal complaint-handling protocols. A neutral investigative panel was convened, and based on its recommendations, the hospital has begun implementing reforms to strengthen its trauma response and emergency medicine systems.
“The panel thoroughly reviewed the events of that day, and appropriate administrative actions have been taken,” Ahmed said.
He disclosed that the victims shown in the viral video received full medical attention and were discharged in stable condition the same day. Contrary to the claims in the video, the panel found no evidence of a shortage of medical consumables at the time of the incident.
“For transparency and adherence to public service rules, some staff members involved have been referred to the Senior Staff Disciplinary Committee,” Ahmed stated.
The medical director said Dr. Samaila’s appointment is part of a broader reform initiative aimed at improving emergency responsiveness and enhancing staff capacity. FMC Abuja is also engaging in partnerships with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and the Medical Association of Nigerians Across Great Britain to implement global best practices in emergency care.
In addition, the hospital is encouraging patients and their families to use official feedback and complaint channels posted at all service points, rather than resorting to social media.
“This ensures prompt resolution of issues, enhances patient satisfaction, and protects healthcare workers from unwarranted harassment,” Ahmed added.
He reaffirmed the hospital’s dedication to high-quality care and assured the public of continued improvements in service delivery.
