FCT Hospitals Allegedly Violating Nigeria's Cashless Policy

Residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria, have recently alleged that public hospitals in satellite towns are persistently demanding cash-only payments for healthcare services, despite the Federal Government's cashless policy.

This situation highlights a significant operational and regulatory disconnect between government policy aimed at promoting a cashless economy and its practical implementation within public institutions. The allegations raise serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and potential corruption within the public health sector, directly impacting citizens' access to essential services and their rights as consumers. The alleged practice of directing patients to private accounts or Point-of-Sale (PoS) operators without issuing proper receipts could constitute financial impropriety, a breach of public service regulations, and potentially a form of illicit enrichment, undermining public trust in healthcare delivery.

Legally, this issue implicates the Central Bank of Nigeria's (CBN) cashless policy, which, while not a direct statute, is implemented through various circulars and guidelines that carry significant regulatory weight. These policies aim to reduce physical cash in circulation and promote electronic transactions. Furthermore, the Public Procurement Act and various financial regulations governing public institutions in Nigeria mandate transparency and accountability in all financial transactions, including the issuance of receipts for services rendered. If proven, the alleged practices could fall under the purview of anti-corruption laws, such as those enforced by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), if they involve illicit enrichment or diversion of public funds. The Consumer Protection Act may also be relevant regarding fair practices in service delivery.

The key parties involved are the patients and caregivers in FCT public hospitals, such as Kubwa General Hospital, who are making these allegations. Also involved are the public hospital staff allegedly demanding cash payments, the Federal Government of Nigeria (through its cashless policy), and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as the policy's implementer. Potentially, anti-corruption agencies and consumer protection bodies could become involved in investigating these claims.

Attorneys advising healthcare providers, public institutions, or consumer rights groups should be acutely aware of the legal and regulatory implications of non-compliance with the cashless policy and financial transparency requirements. Businesses, particularly PoS operators, must ensure their operations strictly comply with CBN regulations and avoid facilitating any transactions that appear illicit or circumvent official payment channels. For individuals, understanding their rights to electronic payment options and proper receipts is crucial. Legal professionals may need to guide clients on reporting such practices to relevant authorities, including anti-corruption bodies or consumer protection agencies, and potentially pursue remedies for financial impropriety or denial of service. The outcome of this matter is not yet reported, but it signals a need for stricter enforcement and oversight within the public health sector.