Osun Govt debunks misleading report, restates ongoing health sector revamp

Segilola Babalola 

The Management of the Osun State Hospitals Management Board has refuted a misleading and politically motivated video circulating on social media regarding the condition of the Comprehensive Health Centre, Esa-Oke, in Obokun Local Government Area.

The video, shared by one Esan Oladiti David on Facebook, alleged that the facility is dilapidated, overgrown with weeds, and lacking both essential medical equipment and personnel. The Management, however, described the claims as exaggerated and lacking proper context.

It clarified that the Esa-Oke facility is among several health institutions inherited in a deteriorated state from previous administrations. The present government has since embarked on a strategic plan to rehabilitate and upgrade secondary healthcare facilities across the state.

As part of this initiative, the government has identified one General Hospital in each federal constituency for comprehensive renovation, rehabilitation, and upgrade. Notably, a government assessment team had earlier visited the Esa-Oke facility to conduct a feasibility study ahead of its inclusion in the upgrade programme.

The Administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke remains deeply committed to delivering quality and accessible healthcare services to the people of Osun State. This commitment is evident in the successful renovation and rehabilitation of over 200 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state—an achievement that has received commendations from reputable governmental and non-governmental organisations within and outside Nigeria.

The Esa-Oke Comprehensive Health Centre is among the 37 secondary health facilities earmarked for similar intervention, as the government continues efforts to restore neglected infrastructure across the state.

In the interim, the Management disclosed that approval has been granted to engage security personnel and clear overgrown vegetation within the facility premises, following reported cases of vandalism by hoodlums.

While reiterating that government cannot operate in isolation, the Board called on members of the host community to collaborate in safeguarding public health infrastructure. It encouraged increased community participation and vigilance, citing ongoing engagement models in Ijebu-Jesa and Igbajo as examples.

The Adeleke administration reassures residents that it will continue to prioritise the strengthening of healthcare infrastructure, workforce capacity, and service delivery statewide. The Esa-Oke facility remains firmly within the scope of ongoing and planned interventions.

The Management therefore urges the public to disregard alarmist and politically driven narratives intended to misinform and incite unnecessary concern. Citizens are advised to rely on official channels for accurate information and to continue accessing services at government health facilities.