Ogah’s Bill To Ban Public Servants From Private Schools, Hospitals Sparks National Debate

A bill recently introduced by Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah at the House of Representatives has stirred nationwide discussion, as it seeks to prohibit public and civil servants, along with their immediate family members, from patronizing private schools and healthcare services in Nigeria or abroad.

The proposed legislation, titled Private Institutions and Healthcare Service Providers (Prohibition) Bill, 2025 (HB.2487), is aimed at restoring integrity, promoting public trust, and compelling the revitalization of Nigeria’s deteriorating public health and education systems.

Hon. Ogah, who represents Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, argues that the trend of public officials abandoning public institutions in favour of private and foreign alternatives has contributed significantly to the decline of essential services meant for the general population.

“It is disheartening that those responsible for managing public schools and hospitals no longer trust them enough to use them. The time to be patriotic is now,” he stated.

Years of Neglect and Misplaced Priorities

Nigerians have for years lamented the collapse of public schools and hospitals, describing many as unfit for basic use. While billions of naira are allocated annually to these sectors, public officials are often accused of misappropriating funds and opting for foreign hospitals or elite private schools for their families.

In 2024 alone, over ₦1.3 trillion was allocated to the health sector, yet Nigerians spent more than $1 billion on foreign medical treatments. Between January and March 2024, Nigerians also spent over $38 million on foreign education.

Critics argue that this is largely because top government officials do not rely on the institutions they manage, thereby having no motivation to improve them.

Mixed Reactions Trail Proposed Bill

The bill has ignited strong reactions across the country. Supporters say it is long overdue and will help curb corruption and force public servants to prioritize the public good.

Lagos-based lawyer, Cosmas Udengs, praised the move, saying it would restore accountability.

“This is a generation that enjoyed free education and healthcare but has destroyed the very system that benefited them. This bill could force them to fix what they broke,” he said.

Dele Onsanya, a secondary school teacher in Lagos, echoed similar sentiments.

“If you can’t use public schools and hospitals, you shouldn’t be in government. Let those ready to make this sacrifice serve the country.”

However, not everyone agrees. Businessman Tony Curtis described the bill as noble but warned that it could trample on personal freedoms if not properly crafted.

“You can’t force someone who already has kids in private schools before public appointment to withdraw them. There must be a humane approach,” he argued.

Provisions for Exemptions

The bill allows for limited exemptions. Public servants may continue using private services if:

• The service is not available in any public institution;

• Their family members were already enrolled or undergoing treatment prior to their appointment;

• A waiver is granted by the relevant minister.

A Step Toward Restoring Public Confidence

Despite the divergent views, the bill has revived public discourse on governance, equity, and accountability. For many Nigerians, it represents a much-needed shift in political responsibility.

Ogah insists the bill is not a punishment but a patriotic call to action.

“Let us restore confidence in our public schools and hospitals. Let us end medical and educational tourism among public officers and show true leadership by example.”

The bill is currently awaiting second reading in the House and, if passed, could mark a major turning point in Nigeria’s public service delivery.