In a decisive move to improve community health services, the Anambra State Government has withheld the salaries of two health workers at the Abacha Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Idemili North Local Government Area for neglecting their duties.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, announced the disciplinary action during a surprise inspection of the facility, where he discovered the centre locked and only two out of four staff were present.
Dr Obidike expressed his frustration over the situation, calling it “unacceptable” and a disservice to the community.
He revealed that the immunisation coverage in the Abacha community was just 2%, attributing this concerning statistic partly to the negligence of health workers.
The Health Commissioner urged all healthcare professionals to uphold their responsibilities and warned that non-compliance would attract further disciplinary measures.
The Health Ministry’s intervention is part of a broader effort to enforce accountability and professionalism across the healthcare system in Anambra State.
During a meeting with Igwe Godwin N. Odiegwu, the traditional ruler of Abacha, Dr Obidike called on local leaders to advocate for vaccination and educate residents on its importance in preventing infectious diseases.
Igwe Odiegwu assured the commissioner of his commitment to supporting the initiative and improving vaccination rates.
State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, highlighted the need to address declining public service ethics.
He emphasised that the government’s decision to withhold the salaries of the negligent workers demonstrates its resolve to prioritise the welfare of residents.
