The Executive Secretary of the Kano State Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Mansur Mudi Nagoda, has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum to three staff members of Hasiya Bayero Paediatrics Hospital. They are being ordered to either return the stolen medication or refund the full amount, totaling N671,000, or face severe legal consequences.
According to a statement on Friday by Samira Suleiman, Public Relations Officer Kano State Hospitals Management Board, the theft was discovered on August 9, 2024, when the hospital’s storekeeper reported a significant quantity of medication missing from the facility’s store. A recount confirmed that the medication, valued at N671,000, had been stolen. Initial investigations revealed no signs of forced entry, indicating that the theft was an inside job, with the medication likely removed by individuals familiar with the store’s operations.
Further complicating the case, the hospital’s CCTV camera was found tampered with, leaving no visual evidence of the theft. Authorities have since identified three individuals as keyholders to the store, who have been summoned before the Hospitals Management Board’s disciplinary committee for questioning.
Dr. Nagoda has made it clear that if the stolen medication or its monetary equivalent is not returned within the given timeframe, the management will not hesitate to involve law enforcement. In addition, the Office of the Head of Civil Service will be notified to enforce disciplinary measures in accordance with civil service rules.
Addressing the staff, Dr. Nagoda emphasized that this incident should serve as a cautionary tale. He reiterated the government’s commitment, under the leadership of Governor Alh Abba Kabir Yusuf, to ensuring that essential medications reach those in need and warned that any attempts to undermine these efforts would be met with stringent action.
“The Executive Governor is committed to fulfilling the government’s promises, and this medication is crucial for our people. We will not stand idly by while anyone tries to steal from the public. Those responsible will face the consequences,” Dr. Nagoda stated.
The public and hospital staff have been urged to support the ongoing investigation and to report any information that could assist in recovering the stolen medication.