Nasarawa Gov Sule orders probe, arrest over missing hospital equipment
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has ordered the arrest and prosecution of health workers involved in the alleged sale of hospital equipment donated to a healthcare facility in the Umaisha Development Area.
Sule characterized the alleged sale as a significant act of misconduct and corruption, expressing concern over the implications for patient care and the broader healthcare needs of the community.
The governor issued the directive during the inauguration of eight commissioners, special advisers, permanent secretaries, and board members at the Government House in Lafia on Wednesday. He instructed Dr. Gaza Gwamna, the state’s Commissioner for Health, to launch an investigation into the matter and ensure that those found responsible face prosecution.
The equipment in question was donated by Ibrahim Abdullahi Sa’ad, the member representing the Umaisha/Ugya Constituency in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly. Sa’ad reportedly purchased the items using his personal funds, motivated by concerns for local healthcare conditions.
“A very honorable member from Umaisha/Ugya recently bought a significant number of mattresses, standing fans, ceiling fans, and other items to address challenges at his local primary healthcare facility,” Sule stated. He noted that Sa’ad discovered the equipment had allegedly been sold by hospital officials during a visit.
The governor voiced his expectations that the Health Commissioner would provide an investigation report by the end of the week.
This directive follows an incident on Monday, during which Sa’ad confronted staff at the General Hospital in Umaisha about the missing equipment. A social media video captured Sa’ad questioning hospital officials regarding the whereabouts of the 50 orthopedic mattresses, over 50 ceiling fans, and about 40 standing fans he had procured for patients.
“Doctor, do you remember the last time we spoke about those orthopedic mattresses? Please do not let me get upset,” Sa’ad was heard demanding in the video. He further expressed concern for the well-being of patients and requested to inspect the mattresses after reports indicated they were being shifted between wards.
The state Ministry of Health is set to conduct an investigation to clarify the situation surrounding the donated equipment and determine accountability.