Outcry over alleged disappearance of N100m lab machine at Delta hospital

Residents of Delta State have expressed outrage over the alleged disappearance of a laboratory machine worth N100 million and other hospital equipment at the Delta State Specialist Hospital in Asaba.

The Guardian learnt that the equipment has been missing for over two years, yet no investigation has been conducted into the matter.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, is alleged to have taken no action since assuming office.

Responding, Onojaeme denied any involvement, explaining 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 State.

“This is a waste of taxpayers’ money,” one source said. “Some of the equipment purchased has disappeared into thin air. Transparency and accountability must prevail to ease tension.”

Another source alleged that efforts to investigate the disappearance of the equipment had been blocked, adding, “The Health Commissioner should ensure the return of all missing equipment, including the laparoscopy machine.”