Edo State’s public health sector has experienced significant challenges under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, according to concerned citizens and stakeholders. Many believe that his policies and actions have led to a deterioration in healthcare services, leaving the masses without essential medical care.
One of the most significant and controversial decisions made by Governor Obaseki was the demolition of the Central Hospital in Benin City. This once-crucial healthcare facility was torn down to boost patient numbers at the newly established Edo Specialist Hospital. This move has been widely criticized as prioritizing private interests over the public good, especially since the Central Hospital served as an accessible option for many Edo residents.
Promises of reforming the primary healthcare system in the state have also gone unfulfilled. Many primary healthcare centers are either non-operational or barely functional, lacking the necessary drugs, consumables, and equipment to serve their communities. This neglect has forced residents to rely on federal government provisions for even the most basic family health commodities, as these essentials are often unavailable in Edo State’s health facilities.
Governor Obaseki’s approach to healthcare appears to prioritize projects and partnerships that benefit a select few, rather than addressing the widespread needs of the populace. His recent decision to sack the Commissioner for Health, citing a lack of capacity, has been viewed by many as an attempt to shift blame away from his own administration. Critics argue that it is Obaseki’s policies that have stifled the health sector, leading to the current crisis.
The Stella Obasanjo Hospital, once a beacon of hope for quality care for mother and child, is reportedly struggling to maintain its standards due to administrative challenges and resource constraints.
The state of Edo’s public health system is alarming, with many accusing the government of neglecting the needs of the poor and vulnerable. As discontent grows, there are increasing calls for change, with many citizens demanding leadership that truly prioritizes the well-being of the masses over personal gain.