Ebola: Atiku calls for transparency on N10bn emergency funds, contact tracing

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Federal Government to account for the N10 billion approved for Ebola preparedness and provide updates on the ongoing response following a confirmed case in Abuja.

Reacting on Wednesday through Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku said Nigerians deserved urgent action and clear information on preparedness and surveillance.

The ADC presidential candidate asked the government to publish details of the disbursement, including amounts released, dates of payment, contracts awarded and items delivered.

According to the statement, the timeline of the case requires clarification. It noted that the patient arrived in Nigeria on October 5, developed symptoms on October 7 and sought care at a private hospital on October 11, while public confirmation was made on October 20.

Atiku said the government should disclose the steps taken at each stage, including screening, contact tracing and support for health workers.

“The patient arrived in Nigeria on October 5, developed symptoms on October 7 and sought care at a private hospital on October 11. The government did not confirm the case publicly until October 20. During that period, 44 close contacts were identified. Private health workers faced the case without adequate protective equipment,” the statement said.

He also called for the response to be led by medical professionals.

“In June, President Tinubu announced a Presidential Task Force chaired by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila. The NCDC, epidemiologists, doctors and public health professionals must be in charge, with the authority and resources to act,” he said.

Atiku urged the government to ensure that public health measures were guided by medical evidence and applied equally, adding that democratic activities should not be affected without clear justification.

He further called on the government to ensure the protection of health workers, complete contact tracing and provide regular updates to the public.