Thousands of Diapers Stolen at Kebbi Hospital: ICPC Vows to Prosecute

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has pledged to investigate the theft of 13,350 diapers intended for antenatal care at a Primary Health Centre in Kebbi’s Sambawa community. The commission’s commitment follows a petition highlighting the missing items, initially reported by the Kebbi State Primary Healthcare Agency as 3,466 diapers.

ICPC Chairman Musa Adamu announced the investigation during a conference in Abuja, emphasizing the commission’s resolve to hold those responsible accountable. The conference, themed “Engendering Corruption-Free Primary Health Care Delivery For All,” aimed to enhance public engagement in combating corruption within the health sector.

Adamu disclosed that two staff members from the Sambawa Primary Healthcare Centre were implicated in the theft. He stressed the importance of addressing corruption, noting that communities and civil society organizations are increasingly focused on improving transparency in healthcare.

The conference also served as a platform to discuss strategies for ensuring effective primary health care across Nigeria. Health Minister Muhammed Pate highlighted the systemic nature of corruption and the need for collective action to address it.

National Union of Journalists President Chris Isiguzo underscored the critical role of primary health care in preventing diseases and maintaining public trust. He called for persistent efforts to tackle corruption, which undermines the integrity of health services and impacts the most vulnerable populations.

Representatives from various health and civil society organizations attended the conference, which included discussions on collaborative approaches to enhance healthcare delivery and reduce corruption.