The Akwa Ibom State Government has issued a stern warning to two medical consultants who allegedly abandoned their duty posts without notice, demanding their immediate return or full reimbursement of state-sponsored training expenses. Dr Uduakabasi Ita, a consultant radiologist, and Dr Mfonobong George Bassey, a consultant haematologist, both staff of the State Ministry of Health, …
Akwa Ibom Demands Refund After Two State-sponsored Doctors Fled
The Akwa Ibom State Government has issued a stern warning to two medical consultants who allegedly abandoned their duty posts without notice, demanding their immediate return or full reimbursement of state-sponsored training expenses.
Dr Uduakabasi Ita, a consultant radiologist, and Dr Mfonobong George Bassey, a consultant haematologist, both staff of the State Ministry of Health, reportedly left their positions after completing eight years of specialised medical training fully funded by the Akwa Ibom government.
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In a statement released on Monday in Uyo, the state capital, Commissioner for Health Dr Ekim John condemned the doctors’ actions, describing them as a breach of professional ethics and a betrayal of public trust.
He warned that punitive measures would be taken should they fail to return to their posts.
“These doctors were trained with taxpayers’ money. The agreement was clear—they must serve the people of Akwa Ibom for a specified number of years before they can resign or seek opportunities elsewhere,” Dr John declared.
The Commissioner emphasised the state government’s commitment to curbing brain drain in the public healthcare sector and maintaining high standards of service delivery within state-owned hospitals and medical facilities.
“Government will not allow its best-trained hands to exit public service for greener pastures without first fulfilling their obligations to the State and its people,” he added.
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Dr John further announced a new policy directive stipulating that henceforth, all medical officers sponsored by the State for professional development must complete their mandatory service years before being granted resignation or release.
The Health Ministry said it is currently finalising documentation and administrative processes to enforce either the return of the doctors to their respective posts or the recovery of all state funds expended on their medical training.
The issue has sparked conversations around medical brain drain and the sustainability of public-sector investments in human capital, particularly in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
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