Alliance Hospital has raised concerns over the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) allegedly providing misleading information regarding the ongoing proceedings of a House Committee on Public Petitions.
The investigation revolves around a petition lodged by Alliance Hospital against NAPTIP, citing purported violations of fundamental human rights concerning its staff members.
At the heart of the controversy lies Dr. Fatima Waziri, the Director General of NAPTIP, accused of abusing her authority and encroaching upon the rights of Dr. Christopher Otabor, Managing Director of Alliance Hospital, along with two other staff members.
According to Dada Joseph, Media Consultant to Alliance Hospital, Dr. Waziri was summoned to appear before the committee on April 18, 2024, following a stern rebuke for her alleged actions on March 7, 2024.
Despite the summons, Dr. Waziri took legal action against Dr. Otabor by filing a lawsuit at the FCT High Court on March 18, 2024. Consequently, she did not attend the scheduled hearing, instead sending representatives to inform the committee of the legal proceedings.
Honorable Emeka Etaba, chairman of the House committee, demonstrated respect for due legal process by refraining from further inquiry into the petition while the matter is sub judice. This decision acknowledges the court’s authority over the ongoing legal dispute.
The unfolding situation underscores the delicate balance between government agencies’ responsibilities and safeguarding individuals’ rights, emphasizing the imperative of transparency and adherence to legal protocols in public officials’ conduct.
