The Delta State Government has taken disciplinary action against health workers found extorting pregnant women and children under five years, despite an existing free healthcare policy.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, disclosed this during the launch of the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiatives (MAMI) Action Plan held in Ashaka, Ndokwa East Local Government Area.
He said those found guilty had either been dismissed or demoted, stressing that the government would not tolerate any sabotage of its healthcare policies.
Dr. Onojaeme reminded residents that the state covers all medical expenses for expectant mothers from conception through delivery, as well as treatment for children below the age of five.
He added that extortion undermines the government’s efforts to provide accessible healthcare and warned that culprits would face strict sanctions.
The Commissioner also highlighted improvements in maternal health outcomes, noting that Delta has recorded a sharp decline in maternal deaths—from over 200 per 100,000 live births to fewer than 120.
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He expressed confidence that the MAMI project would accelerate further progress in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality across the state.
The initiative, which targets high-risk local government areas, is supported by the Federal Government in collaboration with international partners including USAID, WHO, and UNICEF. Representing the Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. John Ovuroaye assured that the government would continue to back Delta in scaling up interventions that safeguard mothers and children.
Dr. Onojaeme reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to strengthening the health sector under the MORE Agenda, pledging that accountability, quality service delivery, and the welfare of vulnerable groups remain at the center of state health policies.
