The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has commended the management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Jabi, Abuja for taking decisive action against staff alleged to have neglected an accident victim.
The Corps Marshal of FRSC, Shehu Mohammed made the commendation in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide on Tuesday in Abuja.
It was reported that victims of a road accident were 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.
Responding, 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, on Monday confirmed that eight of its staff members–including four doctors, two nurses, and two attendants–are currently under investigation for alleged professional negligence.
The Corps Marshal emphasised the imperatives of timely and adequate medical attention in reducing mortality rates and improving outcomes for crash victims, as he also called on all healthcare providers to adopt a more proactive approach in responding to emergencies and saving lives of rescued crash victims.
Mohammed condemned the several rejections of crash victims from FRSC operatives by hospitals, as he revealed that the National Road Traffic Regulations (2024) specifically frowns at hospitals rejecting crash victims.
This, he said, was with detailed provision of adequate punishment for negligence, or any form of misconduct that compromised established regulations on handling of crash victims.
Mr. Mohammed called on citizens to emulate the sense of patriotism by joining hands in promoting a culture of safety, discipline, and professionalism to make a difference and save more lives.
“We urge healthcare providers to prioritise welfare of crash victims and uphold the highest standards of professionalism to save their lives,” the Corps Marshal said.
The FRSC boss reiterated the Corps’ commitment to collaborate with healthcare providers and other stakeholders to enhance road safety and save lives.
He said, “By working together, we can reduce incidences of crashes fatalities to the barest minimum, and improve response to emergencies.”
The Corps Marshal commended the good Nigerian who single handedly rescued the victim