TheCable

The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) says some health workers are involved in the selling of fake COVID-19 vaccination cards.

Faisal Shuaib, executive director of the NPHCDA, said those behind the “criminal behaviour” will be prosecuted after investigation.

Speaking at a briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Shuaib said the Department of State Services (DSS) and Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) are collaborating with the agency to investigate the issue.

He said: “There is zero tolerance to these types of activities. The DSS and ICPC are involved. Once these individuals who are involved in this vaccination racketeering are charged to court, then, of course, the public service rules will be followed and that will lead to potential suspension and firing of these health workers.

“But beyond the health workers, those individuals who are also promoting or trying to access cards illegally will also be prosecuted. So, it is a question of those who want to sell and those who want to buy.

He said the NPHCDA is taking the issue “very seriously,” adding that those behind the practice are putting the integrity of the vaccination process at risk.

Shuaib called on Nigerians to report any suspected case of buying and selling COVID-19 vaccination cards.

“If you see anyone trying to procure vaccination cards, whether they are your friends or relatives, please urge them not to because it is criminal behaviour,” he said.

“Report them if they insist on trying to embark on this dubious act. It is not smart to try and procure vaccine cards when you have not been vaccinated.

“It is criminal, dubious, and should be discouraged in its entirety.”