The Enugu State commissioner for health, George Ugwu, says the government would not hesitate to punish health workers who neglect or abandon their duties.

Mr Ugwu gave the warning during an unscheduled facility visit to the Agbani General Hospital in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State on Monday.

Mr Ugwu was accompanied by some ministry management staff and staff of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The commissioner expressed disappointment at the level of laxity and absenteeism observed among some staff during the visit.

He described such conduct as unacceptable and detrimental to the vision of Gov. Peter Mbah’s administration, which was committed to repositioning the health sector for optimal performance and quality service delivery.

He reiterated that government workers, especially in the health sector, held a sacred responsibility to safeguard lives and maintain the highest standards of professionalism and discipline.

Mr Ugwu also warned that disciplinary actions would be taken against any staff found neglecting their duties or violating public service regulations.

According to the commissioner, the era of impunity and indifference to duty is over.

He explained that the surprise inspection was aimed at assessing the level of compliance of health workers with official duties and service standards

According to him, the visit is also part of the strategic action plan to reposition the ministry and ensure efficiency and accountability in the state’s healthcare delivery.

The commissioner also inspected the hospital’s infrastructure, equipment and patient care processes while directing immediate corrective measures where lapses were identified.

He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving health infrastructure and workers’ welfare, pointing out that such efforts would only yield results if matched with professionalism, dedication and integrity from health personnel.

He lauded the Nkanu West Council chairman, John Ogbodo, for the massive renovations and landscaping underway at the hospital.

(NAN)