The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has praised the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jabi, Abuja, for launching an investigation into staff members accused of neglecting an accident victim brought to the facility.
FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed made the commendation in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, in Abuja.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the victim was rescued from a crash site in Abuja by a good Samaritan and taken to FMC for urgent medical attention.
The hospital’s response sparked public outcry following the circulation of a viral video suggesting the victim was abandoned by hospital personnel.
Corps Marshal Mohammed underscored the critical importance of prompt and effective medical intervention in saving lives and reducing fatalities from road crashes.
He called on all healthcare providers to respond swiftly and professionally in emergency situations.
He also condemned the recurring incidents where hospitals reject crash victims brought in by FRSC operatives, warning that such actions contravene the National Road Traffic Regulations (2024).
The regulations prohibit hospitals from turning away accident victims and outline penalties for negligence or misconduct in such cases.
“We urge healthcare providers to prioritise the welfare of crash victims and uphold the highest standards of professionalism,” Mohammed said.
He reaffirmed the FRSC’s commitment to working with medical institutions and other stakeholders to strengthen road safety efforts and improve emergency response across the country.
Mohammed also extended his appreciation to the good Samaritan who rescued the crash victim, urging Nigerians to emulate such patriotic acts in promoting a culture of safety, compassion, and civic responsibility.
Meanwhile, FMC Abuja confirmed that eight staff members—four doctors, two nurses, and two hospital attendants—are currently under investigation for alleged professional negligence.
Dr. Bioku Muftau, the hospital’s Head of Clinical Services, told reporters that the patient seen in the viral video, who suffered a head injury, was treated and discharged the same day.
He assured the public that the hospital would hold any staff found guilty of dereliction of duty accountable.