01/02/2026
OFFICIAL REJOINDER TO FALSE AND RECKLESS ALLEGATIONS BY MR. PAUL HAANONGON
The Management of Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) categorically rejects, in the strongest possible terms, the false, misleading, and reckless allegations made by Mr. Paul Haanongon during a live broadcast on his page on 1st February, 2026, wherein he alleged that Management under the leadership of the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Terungwa Stephen Hwande, deliberately withheld his salaries for eight months. This allegation is patently untrue, malicious, and calculated to mislead the public while undermining the integrity of the institution.
For the avoidance of doubt and in the interest of public record, Mr. Paul Haanongon is presently facing five (5) separate disciplinary cases involving acts classified as serious misconduct under the Public Service Rules (PSR 030402). In accordance with PSR 030301 and PSR 030306, an officer undergoing investigation for serious misconduct may lawfully be placed on interdiction, during which period such officer is not entitled to full salary, pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings. The actions taken by Management in respect of Mr. Haanongo are therefore lawful, justified, and strictly in compliance with extant public service regulations.
Also, contrary to his misleading public claims, Mr. Haanongon has been formally issued queries, notified of the allegations against him, and afforded ample opportunity to respond in line with the principles of fair hearing as prescribed under PSR 030302. His continued refusal to submit himself to constituted disciplinary authorities and his persistent challenge to established procedures amount to a blatant disregard for lawful authority and due process within the public service.
Management notes with grave concern Mr. Haanongo’s resort to social media as a platform to prosecute a media trial on matters already under formal disciplinary consideration. Such conduct constitutes an additional act of misconduct under PSR 030401, which expressly prohibits acts prejudicial to the discipline, reputation, and orderly administration of the public service. No public servant is permitted to circumvent laid-down disciplinary mechanisms through blackmail, sensationalism, or public misrepresentation.
Management therefore warns that the continued dissemination of falsehoods, half-truths, and defamatory statements against the Hospital and its leadership will attract appropriate sanctions as provided under the Public Service Rules and other applicable laws. The general public is hereby advised to disregard Mr. Haanongon’s unfounded allegations, as BSUTH remains resolute in upholding transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to the rule of law in all matters relating to staff discipline and welfare.
Tsenzughul Moses F. mnipr
CIO/Head, Public Relations & Protocol
Benue State University Teaching Hospital