By Mohammed Bello Doka
The House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Malaria, HIV/AIDS, and Tuberculosis has escalated its probe into the alleged misappropriation of a $300 million fund designated to combat malaria. In a stern move, the Committee has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, demanding his appearance before them.
This ultimatum came after the Committee's summons were ignored by the Ministry's Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom. The Committee, deeply concerned by the apparent negligence, emphasized the severity of the matter, stressing that the mismanagement of funds earmarked for such critical healthcare initiatives cannot be tolerated.
Chairman Amoebi Ogah expressed the Committee's determination to uphold accountability, declaring, "The National Assembly will no longer tolerate the attitude of civil servants taking parliament for a ride. Enough is enough." Ogah emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, particularly in light of malaria's devastating impact on public health.
With the clock ticking, the Committee's ultimatum underscores the gravity of the situation and the imperative for transparency and accountability in healthcare funding. Failure to comply may result in the invocation of constitutional measures, including potential arrest, to ensure accountability and safeguard public health resources.
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