Rivers Community Laments Abandoned Hospital on World Health Day
As the world commemorates World Health Day, residents of Elele Alimini in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State have voiced deep concerns regarding the non-functioning of a public health facility in their community. Investigations conducted by The Guardian have uncovered that the sole healthcare center serving the area has been abandoned for several years, now lying in a state of disrepair with critical infrastructure vandalized by hoodlums.
Community Leaders Express Frustration Over Inaction
The paramount ruler of Elele Alimini, Eze Peter Wagbara, expressed sorrow over the situation, noting that repeated appeals to relevant authorities, including the State House of Assembly, to rehabilitate and reactivate the hospital have produced no tangible results. "The hospital remains unattended, inactive, and overgrown with weeds. It is unfortunate," he lamented. Residents, particularly women, have decried the significant hardship caused by the absence of a functional healthcare center, highlighting that accessing medical care has become increasingly challenging.
According to community members, sick individuals are often forced to undertake long journeys to locations such as Choba or Ahoada, which involve approximately a 1.5-hour drive, to receive necessary treatment. An elder in the community, Hyginus Opaka, described the circumstances as dire, especially for vulnerable groups like pregnant women who must travel considerable distances for antenatal care and other medical services.
Reliance on Unaffordable Private Facilities
Another community leader emphasized that residents now heavily depend on private health facilities, which are frequently unaffordable for many. "We need a nearby functional hospital," he stressed, underscoring the urgent need for accessible and affordable healthcare options. The lack of a local public hospital has exacerbated health disparities and placed undue financial burdens on families already struggling with economic challenges.
Governor Fubara's Commitment to Healthcare Improvement
Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed his administration's dedication to enhancing healthcare delivery across the state. In a goodwill message marking World Health Day, the governor pledged to prioritize initiatives aimed at ensuring residents have access to quality, affordable healthcare. He urged citizens to adopt healthy lifestyles, maintain proper hygiene, and take preventive measures against diseases, while also highlighting the crucial role of communities in promoting health awareness and support systems.
The ongoing situation in Elele Alimini serves as a stark reminder of the gaps in public health infrastructure, even as state officials express commitments to improvement. Community members continue to hope for swift action to address their pressing healthcare needs and restore functionality to the abandoned facility.
