ICPC petitions MDCN against El-Rufai's doctor over fake medical report

• ICPC petitions MDCN against Bello Abubakar, an oncologist at the National Hospital in Abuja, alleging professional misconduct.
• The ICPC investigation centers on a medical report used to secure bail for former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, which was flagged as potentially fake by the hospital's management.
• The case highlights the importance of maintaining accurate records in healthcare and raises questions about the integrity of medical reports.
• The Medical and Dental Practitioners Act empowers the MDCN to regulate medical practice in Nigeria and enforce professional conduct.

However, the hospital's management disputed the authenticity of the report, stating that no hospital number was quoted and that a search of electronic medical records revealed no match for El-Rufai's name.

A medical report used to secure bail for former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has been flagged as potentially fake by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The ICPC petitioned the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) against Bello Abubakar, an oncologist at the National Hospital in Abuja, alleging professional misconduct. According to the affidavit submitted by Alex Omamuli, an ICPC investigator, El-Rufai presented a medical report dated 10 June, which was issued on the letterhead of the National Hospital and signed by Abubakar. However, the hospital's management disputed the authenticity of the report, stating that no hospital number was quoted and that a search of electronic medical records revealed no match for El-Rufai's name. The hospital also confirmed that Abubakar is a retired officer who works on contract, and that he issued the report without their knowledge or authorization.

The Medical and Dental Practitioners Act empowers the MDCN to regulate medical practice in Nigeria. The council has two disciplinary organs: the Medical Practitioners Investigating Panel, which probes allegations of misconduct, and the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, which adjudicates cases referred to it. As the professional body responsible for enforcing professional conduct, the MDCN is obligated to investigate ethical complaints and take disciplinary action when necessary. The ICPC's petition against Abubakar was received by the MDCN on 8 July, and an acknowledgement copy shows that the complaint has been forwarded to the Medical Practitioners Investigating Panel for further action.

This development highlights the importance of maintaining accurate records in healthcare. The ICPC's investigation into Abubakar's actions raises questions about the integrity of medical reports and the potential consequences of forging such documents. As the case unfolds, it will be crucial to examine the procedures in place for verifying the authenticity of medical reports and ensuring that patients' rights are protected. The outcome of this case may have far-reaching implications for healthcare providers and regulatory bodies alike.

This development highlights the importance for healthcare providers to maintain accurate records and obtain informed consent from patients, as any discrepancies can lead to disciplinary action.

Source: Original reporting via PREMIUM TIMES