Governor Abdullahi Sule orders arrest over alleged sale of donated hospital equipment

Governor Abdullahi Sule has ordered the arrest and prosecution of health workers accused of selling hospital equipment donated to a healthcare facility in Umaisha Development Area, Nasarawa State.

The governor described the alleged sale as a serious act of misconduct and corruption.

He said the action showed a troubling disregard for patients and residents who depend on public healthcare facilities.

Governor Abdullahi Sule issued the directive on Wednesday while inaugurating eight commissioners, special advisers, permanent secretaries and board members at the Government House in Lafia, the state capital.

He directed the Commissioner for Health, Dr Gaza Gwamna, to investigate the allegation.

The commissioner must also ensure that anyone found responsible faces prosecution, the governor said.

The directive comes amid concerns over the management of public resources and healthcare facilities in the state.

Donated medical equipment is often intended to strengthen healthcare services and improve access to treatment, particularly in communities where residents have limited options.

Therefore, the alleged sale of such equipment could raise questions about accountability and the protection of public assets.

However, the allegations will need to be established through a proper investigation before those accused can be held responsible.

Governor Abdullahi Sule’s order places the state Ministry of Health at the centre of the investigation.

The ministry will now be expected to establish what happened to the equipment, identify those involved and determine whether any laws or regulations were breached.

The case also highlights the importance of effective monitoring of medical equipment donated to public health facilities.

For residents of Umaisha Development Area, the outcome of the investigation could determine whether the equipment returns to the facility or whether officials face disciplinary or legal action.

The governor has therefore demanded accountability while directing health authorities to take action against anyone found culpable.