Adjumani teacher arrested after smashing hospital pharmacy window over drug shortage

Police in Adjumani District are investigating an incident in which a primary school teacher, Godfrey Obulejo, stormed Adjumani General Hospital and smashed the glass window of the pharmacy at the private wing with his fist.

Eyewitnesses reported that Obulejo, a teacher at Oligo Primary School in Adjumani Town Council, was provoked when a health worker at the facility allegedly asked him to provide some of the drugs and medical supplies needed for the safe delivery of his expectant wife.

During the altercation, Obulejo injured his right arm, while a nurse on duty sustained cuts from the shattered glass.

“I am a public servant; I pay taxes and expect to receive better health services at a government facility. It's unfair for me to buy drugs from a private health facility when my wife is in deep pain and requires immediate attention,” Obulejo stated.

Dr. Michael Ambaku, the Medical Superintendent of Adjumani General Hospital, said his office is yet to determine what transpired between the suspect and the health workers on duty during the incident.

“The staff called the police to intervene and prevent further damage to the hospital premises,” Dr. Ambaku added.

Superintendent of Police Ignatius Dragudu revealed that at the time of Obulejo's arrest, the suspect appeared visibly drunk and was acting under the influence of alcohol.

He emphasized that it was unlawful for Obulejo to take matters into his own hands and that he should have followed proper procedures to express his grievances.

“The suspect is currently in our custody, and we have charged him with causing malicious damage to government property,” Superintendent Dragudu stated.

Stockouts of essential drugs and medical supplies have become common at health facilities across the district, affecting both nationals and refugees who rely on integrated health services.