Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has demanded a public audit of the Federal Government’s reported N10 billion Ebola preparedness fund, raising concerns about alleged shortcomings in Nigeria’s response to a reported case in Abuja.
Atiku questioned whether the funds had been properly utilised, particularly in protecting frontline health workers and strengthening disease surveillance.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council, the former vice president called for full disclosure of expenditure relating to the emergency allocation.
He demanded details of funds released, contracts awarded, payments made and medical supplies delivered.
“Where is the money? Publish the amount actually disbursed, the dates of payment, every contract awarded, every recipient and every item delivered,” Atiku said.
His concerns followed reports of an Ebola case in Abuja, which he alleged exposed weaknesses in the country’s emergency health response.
According to Atiku, the patient entered Nigeria on October 5, developed symptoms two days later and visited a private hospital on October 11.
He claimed that authorities did not publicly confirm the infection until October 20, leaving a significant period during which potentially exposed individuals might not have received adequate monitoring.
The former vice president further alleged that 44 close contacts remained unmonitored while private healthcare workers attended to the patient without sufficient protective equipment.
These claims, including the reported infection and contact-tracing figures, were not independently verified in the supplied statement.
Atiku also questioned the composition of the Presidential Task Force reportedly established in June under the leadership of the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
He argued that medical professionals should take the lead in managing public health emergencies rather than political appointees.
“Political titles cannot trace contacts, equip hospitals or save lives,” he stated.
Beyond concerns about disease control, Atiku warned against allowing emergency health measures to interfere with political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He alleged that a planned Thursday briefing by the Minister of Health could be used to discourage participation in campaign gatherings and voting.
However, the statement did not present evidence establishing that the briefing was intended to restrict political participation.
Atiku maintained that any restrictions introduced in response to a health emergency should be supported by medical evidence, implemented fairly and consistent with citizens’ democratic rights.
He urged the government to prioritise the protection of healthcare workers, effective contact tracing and transparent management of public funds.
The allegations raise questions for health authorities to address regarding the reported case, the status of surveillance operations and the expenditure of emergency preparedness resources.
No official response to Atiku’s specific allegations was included in the account.
Ezeana Emmanuel
