The Kano State Government has initiated an investigation following allegations that Hajiya Amina Abdullahi, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, assaulted a female doctor at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital on November 1, 2024. The incident has sparked outrage among healthcare workers, prompting the state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to issue a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Abba Yusuf, calling for the immediate dismissal of the Commissioner.
Dr. Abubakar Labaran, Kano’s Commissioner for Health, confirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the matter, announcing that a committee has been established by the Ministry of Health to investigate the incident. The committee has been tasked with submitting a comprehensive report within 48 hours, as directed by Governor Yusuf.
“We have formed a committee to investigate the incident, and the case will be resolved amicably,” Dr. Labaran stated.
In a letter addressed to Governor Yusuf, the NMA expressed deep concern over the alleged assault, describing it as a serious breach of ethical standards. “It is troubling that a public official would assault a healthcare worker who is serving under challenging conditions, including understaffing and limited resources,” read the NMA’s statement.
The association also threatened to withdraw its services from the hospital if decisive action is not taken within the 48-hour window.
Dr. Labaran acknowledged the NMA’s concerns and confirmed that discussions have been held with the association to ensure their grievances are addressed. He assured that the ministry’s findings would soon be presented to the governor and emphasized that the investigation is being handled with the utmost seriousness.
