The Kano State Government has launched an investigation into the disappearance and alleged sales of N500 million worth of food products meant to treat malnourished children.
Punch reported that the state has set up an 18-member committee to investigate the diversion, theft, and unauthorized sale of the Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF).
Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Yusuf revealed that the Government spent over N500 million to purchase the RUTF products. The products were expected to treat vulnerable children suffering from severe acute malnutrition and not for commercial purposes.
However, some people allegedly diverted, stole, and also sold a yet-to-be determined volume of these products.
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,” the commissioner stated.
The committee is expected to uncover facts surrounding the reported diversion of the life-saving RUTFs and bring culprits to justice. These include individuals or groups, alongside possible collaborators among health workers, private traders and community members.
Additionally, the committee is expected to recommend appropriate administrative, disciplinary and corrective measures and submit a report within 14 days.
