The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has launched an investigation into the alleged theft of 13,350 diapers meant for antenatal care at a Primary Health Centre in the Sambawa community of Kebbi State.
ICPC Chairman Musa Adamu disclosed this information during a one-day conference in Abuja focused on ensuring corruption-free primary healthcare delivery. The event, themed “Engendering Corruption-Free Primary Health Care Delivery For All,” brought together various stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
Adamu stated,”Recently, the Sambawa community in Kebbi State sent a petition to us regarding missing antenatal care items for pregnant women and newborn babies donated to a healthcare facility.”
He added, “Our preliminary investigation indicated that the missing diapers allocated to Sambawa Primary Healthcare Centre are 13,350 pieces, while the investigation by Kebbi State Primary Healthcare Agency puts it at 3,466.”
The ICPC chairman revealed that two staff members of the Sambawa Primary Healthcare Centre, a male and a female, have been implicated in the disappearance of the items. He emphasized the commission’s commitment to uncovering the full extent of the criminal conduct and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
The conference aimed to stimulate discussions on improving service delivery and eliminating opportunities for corruption in the health sector.
Adamu noted, “The Commission’s choice of Primary Health Care in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as the pilot for the nationwide conversation is to create a comprehensive template that can be replicated in all the six geopolitical zones of the federation.”
Minister of Health Muhammed Pate addressed the gathering, highlighting the systemic nature of corruption in Nigeria’s healthcare system. “When we look at the issue of corruption in Nigeria, which is a long-standing issue, it’s almost everywhere but how do you address it?” Pate questioned. .
“It’s a huge challenge and it’s a systemic challenge. It is also a multi-institutional challenge, this conversation will determine what to do about it,” he said
Chris Isiguzo, National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), underscored the critical importance of primary healthcare in the nation’s health system.
“Primary Health Care is the bedrock of any nation’s health system, It is the first point of contact for individuals, families, and communities, playing a critical role in preventing diseases, promoting health, and ensuring the well-being of our citizens.” Isiguzo stated.
The Explainer gathered that the conference was attended by representatives from various organizations, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), the United Nations Development Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), and the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives.
(NAN)
