By Augustine Kuza, Lafia
Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, has ordered an investigation into the alleged diversion and sale of hospital equipment donated to a primary healthcare facility in Umaisha-Ugya, warning that officials found culpable will be removed from service and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The governor gave the directive to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Gaza Gomna, during the swearing-in of newly appointed commissioners and other public officials, where he reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and abuse of public trust.
Governor Sule said the lawmaker representing the Umaisha-Ugya area had recently procured mattresses, standing fans, ceiling fans and other essential items for the local primary healthcare facility after becoming concerned about the poor condition of the centre.
According to the governor, the lawmaker returned to the facility a few days after the donation and was shocked to discover that some of the items had allegedly been sold by members of staff.
Sule described the alleged incident as unacceptable and directed the health commissioner to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and ensure that anyone found responsible faces appropriate administrative and legal sanctions.
He said the alleged sale of items meant to improve the welfare and comfort of sick patients was particularly disturbing, stressing that public officials entrusted with healthcare responsibilities must demonstrate integrity, compassion and commitment to the communities they serve.
The governor directed the Commissioner for Health to submit the outcome of the investigation within the week, emphasizing that officials found culpable must face the full consequences of their actions.
He warned that corruption, negligence and abuse of public trust could undermine ongoing efforts by his administration to strengthen the state’s healthcare system and improve access to essential services, particularly for residents of rural communities.
Governor Sule also charged the newly appointed commissioners and other public officials to uphold fairness, transparency, professionalism and accountability in the discharge of their duties.
He urged them to work closely with permanent secretaries and other members of the state bureaucracy to ensure effective coordination, efficient service delivery and the successful implementation of government policies and programmes.
