Kano probes diversion, sale of malnutrition treatment products

Following alleged diversion, theft, and unauthorized sales of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) meant for the treatment of malnourished children across the state, the Kano State Government has commenced an investigation to prosecute those behind the criminal acts.

A high-powered committee to investigate the alleged crimes has already been inaugurated.

Inaugurating the committee on behalf of the Executive Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, said the committee was constituted to uncover the facts surrounding the reported diversion of the life-saving nutritional commodities and ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice.

Dr. Yusuf explained that the committee has been mandated to investigate the alleged diversion of RUTF, establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify responsible individuals or groups, including possible collaborators among health workers, private traders, and community members, as well as determine the quantity and estimated value of the missing products.

The commissioner further stated that the committee is also expected to recommend appropriate administrative, disciplinary, and corrective measures, provide additional recommendations where necessary, and submit its report within 14 days from the date of inauguration.

He revealed that the Kano State Government expended over N500 million on the procurement of the RUTF products to support the treatment of children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, stressing that the commodities were intended solely for vulnerable children and not for commercial purposes.

According to him, it is deeply disturbing that some unpatriotic individuals allegedly diverted the nutritional supplements for personal gain by selling them in open markets, thereby denying malnourished children access to critical treatment. He emphasized that the government would not tolerate any act capable of undermining public health interventions and would ensure that all those involved face the full weight of the law.

The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Health, Pharmacist Aminu Bashir, and comprises 18 members drawn from relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, representatives of the Emirate Council, and Ward Development Committees from Dawakin Tofa, Wudil, Rano, and Bichi zones, among others. The Director of Administration and General Services of the Ministry, Alhaji Naziru Tanko Kyaure, will serve as secretary of the committee.

Responding on behalf of the committee, the chairman, Pharmacist Aminu Bashir, assured the Kano State Government and the people of the state that members would discharge the responsibility entrusted to them with utmost diligence, transparency, and professionalism, adding that no stone would be left unturned in uncovering the truth and safeguarding public resources meant for the well-being of children.