The recent decision following a circulated Plenary Video by the House of Assembly in Ado Ekiti to upgrade the IKOLE EKITI state hospital to a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) has sparked a debate and raised concerns among the residents of Ikere Ekiti. This personalized opinion seeks to examine the decision and express my views on the matter at hand.
Firstly, I commend Hon. Tunde Idowu, also known as “Unbreakable,” for his unwavering commitment and resolute advocacy for the healthcare needs of his constituency. His motion to upgrade the Ikere Ekiti state hospital to an FMC reflects his dedication to ensuring accessible and quality healthcare services for the people he represents. Despite the disappointment of having his motion denied, his reaction in the plenary demonstrates his determination to address the concerns of the Ikere people.
The decision to upgrade the IKOLE EKITI state hospital raises pertinent questions about fairness and equal distribution of resources. The presence of an existing FMC in Ido Ekiti, within the same North Senatorial district, seems to suggest a lack of consideration for the healthcare needs of the Ikere people. It is understandable that the residents of Ikere Ekiti would feel saddened by this development, as they will now have to travel from the South to the North Senatorial district to access specialized medical services. This inconvenience places an undue burden on the population, particularly those with limited means and transportation options.
In achieving a fair and equitable distribution of healthcare services, it is essential to consider various factors, including population density, accessibility, and proximity to existing medical facilities. It is crucial to ensure that the needs of all residents are adequately met, regardless of their location within the state. If the population of Ikere Ekiti justifies the upgrade of their local hospital to an FMC, it is reasonable to question why this decision was not given due consideration.
Given the concerns raised by Hon. Tunde Idowu and the disappointment expressed by the residents of Ikere Ekiti, it is crucial for the government and relevant stakeholders to reevaluate the decision. A transparent and unbiased evaluation of the healthcare needs of Ikere Ekiti should be conducted, taking into account the population size, accessibility, and the potential strain on residents traveling to the North Senatorial district for medical services. It is only through such a reassessment that a more equitable and satisfactory resolution can be achieved.
The upgrade of the IKOLE EKITI state hospital to a Federal Medical Centre has generated controversy and discontent among the residents of Ikere Ekiti. While praising Hon. Tunde Idowu for his advocacy, it is important to acknowledge the concerns raised by the people of Ikere Ekiti regarding the perceived bias and neglected needs. A reassessment of the decision, considering factors such as population density and accessibility, is necessary to ensure the equitable distribution of healthcare services. It is my hope that the government and stakeholders will take these concerns into account and work towards a solution that addresses the healthcare needs of all residents in Ekiti State.
~Olumide Akomolafe (Journalist)
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