Authorities at University College Hospital[UCH] have commenced investigation into the alleged diversion of diesel supplied to power critical units of the hospital amid the institution’s ongoing electricity challenges.
The development followed reports that a member of staff were allegedly involved in diverting and selling diesel meant to sustain essential hospital operations during periods of power outage.
It was gathered that the hospital’s Chief Security Officer (CSO) recently uncovered the alleged act of sabotage during an internal monitoring exercise.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday.
Reacting to the development, the Chief Information and Public Relations Officer of the hospital, Mrs. Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed the incident but dismissed claims that the alleged diversion plunged the hospital into total darkness.
According to her, the situation did not disrupt operations across the hospital as being speculated in some quarters.
“It happened on Monday. It did not throw the hospital into any darkness. Disciplinary action will be taken against the person involved,” she said.
The hospital management, however, did not disclose the identity of the staff member allegedly linked to the incident or the quantity of diesel involved.
The alleged diversion came at a time the tertiary health institution has been grappling with electricity supply challenges affecting some sections of the hospital.
Sources within the hospital said diesel supplies are often used to power generators serving critical units and essential medical services whenever public electricity supply fails.
The latest development has raised concerns among stakeholders over the need for stricter monitoring and accountability in the management of resources meant for public healthcare institutions.
Hospital authorities assured that necessary disciplinary procedures would be followed in line with institutional regulations.
