USAID field worker, 2 others remanded over alleged diversion of free mosquito nets

An Osun State Magistrates’ Court has remanded a field worker attached to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and two others over the alleged theft and sale of 300 insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) meant for free distribution to residents.

The suspects, identified as Rabbi Bennett, Opeyemi Ajibola and Aminu Ibrahim, were arraigned by the Osun State Police Command on charges bordering on conspiracy and theft following an investigation into the diversion of government-owned healthcare materials.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Abiodun Ojelabi, Bennett was serving as a USAID field worker in Ife North Local Government Area when the alleged diversion occurred.

Police said the case came to light after Bennett reportedly engaged in a public dispute with Ajibola, a commercial motorcycle rider, over the sharing of proceeds from the sale of the mosquito nets.

The disagreement attracted the attention of residents, who alerted security operatives. Subsequent investigations allegedly revealed that the trio had sold six bulk bundles containing 300 insecticide-treated mosquito nets that were designated for free public distribution under a malaria prevention campaign.

The stolen mosquito nets formed part of the ongoing state-wide malaria intervention programme being implemented by the Osun State Government in collaboration with the National Malaria Elimination Programme and Catholic Relief Services.

The campaign involves the distribution of approximately 2.9 million insecticide-treated nets across the state to help reduce malaria infections, particularly among vulnerable households. Health authorities have repeatedly emphasized that the nets are provided free of charge and are not to be sold.

Police said the diversion of the medical supplies deprived intended beneficiaries of essential malaria prevention materials funded through public and international health intervention programmes.

Following their arrest, the suspects were charged with conspiracy and theft before an Osun State Magistrates’ Court.

The court subsequently ordered that the three defendants be remanded in a correctional facility pending the continuation of proceedings.

The Osun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public assets and warned individuals against diverting or illegally trading government and donor-funded relief materials intended for public welfare.