The management of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, has commenced an internal investigation after staff members were allegedly caught diverting diesel allocated for critical hospital operations during the institution’s prolonged electricity crisis.
The incident reportedly occurred as the tertiary healthcare facility continued to battle severe power challenges linked to unresolved debt disputes with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, raising fresh concerns over operational stability at one of Nigeria’s leading teaching hospitals.
Hospital authorities were said to have intercepted the suspected diversion during an internal security operation aimed at monitoring the distribution of emergency fuel supplies within sensitive medical units.
Brandspur Brand News gathered that the diesel allegedly being diverted was originally designated for essential departments including the Intensive Care Unit and surgical wards, where uninterrupted electricity remains critical for patient care and emergency procedures.
Sources familiar with the development disclosed that the fuel was allegedly being moved for illegal resale outside the hospital system before security officials intervened.
The discovery has reportedly triggered a broader disciplinary review focused on internal sabotage, unauthorised handling of hospital resources, and the protection of critical infrastructure assets within the medical facility.
The latest development adds to mounting concerns surrounding the prolonged power crisis at UCH Ibadan, which has disrupted hospital operations and intensified pressure on management to maintain essential healthcare services despite unstable electricity supply.
Industry observers say the situation highlights the growing operational risks facing public healthcare institutions across Nigeria as rising energy costs, infrastructure challenges, and internal control weaknesses continue to strain service delivery.
Hospital management is yet to officially disclose the number of staff implicated in the incident, but investigations and administrative procedures are reportedly ongoing.
