Kano: The Kano State Government has inaugurated a committee to investigate the alleged unauthorized sale of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) intended for treating children with severe acute malnutrition across the state. The committee was established to determine the circumstances of the reported diversion and ensure accountability for those involved.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the committee was inaugurated by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran, on behalf of Governor Alhaji Abba Yusuf. The committee is tasked with determining how the incident occurred, identifying individuals or groups involved, including possible collaborators among health workers, private traders, and community members, and ascertaining the quantity and estimated value of the missing commodities.
Dr. Labaran highlighted that the committee is also expected to recommend appropriate administrative, disciplinary, and corrective measures and submit its findings within 14 days. He noted that the state government spent over N500 million on procuring the RUTF, emphasizing that the products were intended strictly for medical intervention and not for commercial distribution.
He expressed concern over the alleged diversion, stating that it deprived malnourished children of essential treatment. He warned that the government would not tolerate actions undermining public health interventions and that those found responsible would face legal consequences.
The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Aminu Bashir, along with 18 members from relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, the Emirate Council, and Ward Development Committees from various zones. Alhaji Naziru Kyaure, Director of Administration and General Services in the ministry, will serve as secretary.
In response, Aminu Bashir assured the government of the committee’s commitment to conducting the investigation with diligence, transparency, and professionalism, pledging to uncover the truth and protect public resources.