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Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has explained that he suspended the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Moses Ekuma, for three months due to his failure to demonstrate the necessary capability to manage the health ministry effectively.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abakaliki at a citizens’ engagement forum for the 2025 budget proposal, Nwifuru stated that despite the health ministry having a wealth of qualified personnel, it remained underperforming.
He emphasized the importance of responsibility for those in positions of authority, stating that such individuals should not approach their duties with complacency. “Being in a leadership role comes with great responsibility, and those entrusted with such positions must fulfill their obligations,” he said.
The governor expressed disappointment that, despite significant government investments in the health sector, tangible results were lacking. He cited a contractor who received N3 billion to supply equipment and materials to primary healthcare centres, yet the expected improvements were not evident.
“The government has spent billions to upgrade primary healthcare centres and general hospitals, but the results have not matched the investments,” Nwifuru remarked.
In response, he announced plans to form committees to inspect health facilities across the state. He also highlighted ongoing efforts such as the drug revolving fund for general hospitals, which had reached a 60 percent delivery rate. The aim, he said, was to ensure that rural health facilities were well-equipped to provide immediate care before referrals to specialist hospitals.
Once fully rehabilitated, the governor indicated that health facilities would operate independently, with doctors and health workers generating funds to cover their salaries and operational costs, creating a self-sustaining model.
He also mentioned plans to reform the state broadcasting service by transforming it into a public liability company that would rely on its own generated revenue to fund operations. Any redundant staff would be reassigned to other relevant ministries.
Nwifuru warned commissioners and other public officeholders that inefficiency would not be tolerated, stating that those who failed to fulfill their duties would face sanctions. “We’ve been in office for over a year, and anyone not serious about their responsibilities should reconsider their position,” he asserted.
During the forum, several stakeholders praised the governor for his inclusive governance style and reiterated their commitment to supporting his administration.
