The Enugu State Government has suspended Mrs. Pascaline Njoku, a community health extension worker at Ameke Health Centre in Aninri Local Government Area, following allegations of negligence and dereliction of duty. The suspension, announced by Governor Peter Mbah’s media office, came after the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency’s report on Mrs. Njoku’s unauthorized absence from her duty post and failure to attend to patients.
The suspension aims to facilitate a thorough investigation, prompted by an incident where Mrs. Emeka Nkemdirim gave birth to twins in a car while on her way to a private hospital due to Mrs. Njoku’s absence. Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, emphasized the importance of healthcare workers staying on duty posts and warned against patronizing traditional birth attendants (TBAs) due to associated dangers.
The government has pledged to sanction staff members involved in dereliction of duty in line with the state’s Public Service Rules. Pregnant women are advised to seek delivery services only at hospitals staffed by trained professionals to ensure safe deliveries and proper management of any complications.
The Executive Secretary, accompanied by the Chairman of the council area, Hon. Bennett Ajah, and other health workers, visited the family of Mrs. Nkemdirim to provide support. Hon. Ajah commended the government’s commitment to healthcare and pledged the council’s support in improving health and living standards.