Renewed outrage over N100m lab equipment missing for more than 2 years
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
There is renewed outrage over the disappearance of a laboratory machine worth N100 million and other equipment from Delta State Specialist Hospital, Asaba.
It was learnt that the equipment has been missing for over two years without the authorities doing investigation about it.
Health Commissioner Joseph Onojaeme allegedly has not taken action on it since assuming office. He, however, denied any involvement, reiterating that the incident occurred before his tenure.
“I know nothing about it. It happened in 2022, and I assumed office in August 2023. Moreover, the police are already investigating it. How can they accuse me of something I know nothing about?” he said.
Sources who spoke to The Guardian on condition of anonymity, criticised the lack of accountability, stressing that the hospital and its facilities are public property meant to serve the people of Delta.
“This is a waste of taxpayers’ money,” one source said.
“Some of the equipment purchased have disappeared into thin air. Transparency and accountability must prevail to ease tension.”
Another source alleged that efforts to investigate the disappearance of the equipment have been blocked, but insisted that “The Health Commissioner should ensure the return of all missing equipment, including the laparoscopy machine.”
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