The Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi has introduced a biometric attendance system, effective January 16, 2025, aimed at tackling issues of staff lateness and absenteeism. According to Chief Medical Director, Dr. Terungwa Stephen Hwande, the initiative seeks to foster discipline, ensure accountability, and enhance service delivery within the hospital.
The move has elicited varied responses. Benue social media activist, Akawe Mannesah, praised the policy as a step toward professionalism, asserting that “working in a hospital is not the same as working in a bar.” However, skepticism persists, with some questioning the timing and effectiveness of the system.
Criticism has emerged from staff and eyewitnesses, who cite poor maintenance and allege that the biometric machines are not functioning properly. They further claim the policy serves as a diversion from ongoing grievances over alleged poor staff welfare and the controversial ₦6,000 salary deductions reportedly introduced by hospital management. The debate continues to unfold, reflecting the challenges of balancing operational improvements with staff concerns at BSUTH.
