The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opened a full investigation into Dr. Philip Ugbodaga, the Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Benin City.
Staff blew the whistle. Now the EFCC wants answers – and they want them fast.
What the EFCC is Asking For Right Now
In an official letter dated 31 October 2025, the anti-graft agency demanded:
- Complete payroll of every permanent, contract, casual, and temporary worker
- Full list of every contract awarded since 2023 (names, amounts, payments, bank details)
- Explanation for a ₦43 million furniture contract while staff sit on the bare floor
Staff Speak Out: “We Were Working on Mats and Wrappers”
One worker told investigators:
“Some of us sat on the bare floor, on mats, on wrappers, or even on patients’ beds just to do our jobs. The old furniture we inherited is broken, yet millions were spent on new ones nobody has seen.”
Twenty workers suddenly had their salaries stopped without warning or letter. Many are still reporting for duty while receiving nothing.
The Recruitment Scandal That Raised Eyebrows
- The Federal Ministry of Health only gave approval for recruitment in July 2025
- The hospital had already started hiring people in December 2024 – seven months early
- The MD’s Personal Assistant, Mr. Adedeji Bode Segun, is accused of collecting salary from two federal jobs at the same time
Why This Matters to Every Nigerian
Money meant for hospital beds, drugs, and staff salaries has allegedly disappeared into questionable contracts.
When public hospitals are treated like private businesses, patients and honest workers pay the price.
The EFCC says the investigation continues. More details are expected soon.
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