The management of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) Bauchi has issued a stern warning to the public about a fraudulent employment scheme being falsely linked to the institution.

In an official statement released on Monday, Usman Koli, Head of Public Relations and Protocol Unit of the hospital, revealed that criminal elements both within and outside the hospital premises have been extorting money from unsuspecting job seekers and temporary workers under false pretenses.

"The management is deeply dismayed by the disturbing reports of fraudulent activities perpetrated by certain criminal-minded individuals operating within and outside the hospital premises," the statement read. "These fraudsters are illegally extorting money from locum staff under the false pretence of converting their temporary appointments to permanent ones."

The hospital management emphasized that it does not authorize anyone to collect money for employment opportunities and that all recruitment processes at ATBUTH follow due process, merit, transparency, and approval from relevant authorities.

Strong Warning to Perpetrators

The hospital administration described the fraudulent activities as "shameful and unethical" and "a serious criminal offence," vowing that anyone caught engaging in such activities would face exposure and prosecution.

The statement also indicated that the hospital would take disciplinary action against any staff member found to be involved in the scheme.

"Members of the public and all locum staff are hereby strongly advised to be vigilant, steer clear of unofficial dealings, and report any suspicious offers or solicitation of money for employment," Koli stated.

This warning comes amid growing concerns about employment scams targeting desperate job seekers across Nigeria, with fraudsters exploiting the high unemployment rate to extort money from vulnerable individuals.

The public is advised to verify employment opportunities directly with the hospital's official channels and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.