Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Health, Dr Akindele Adekunle has described the recent visitations by APC’s Chairmen to Public Health Care Centres across the state as unlawful and unauthorised.
In a public alert message signed personally by Akindele, emphasised that “No local government official has the authority to inspect or interfere with the operations of PHCs without express approval from the Primary Healthcare in Osogbo.”
He, also added that Osun people should hold these APC’s Chairmen accountable for any damages inflicted on healthcare workers or disruption of medical services.
His words, “We bring to the attention of the public that Sacked Yes/No Local Government APC Chairmen are illegally visiting Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) across the state. These visits are unauthorized, unlawful, and designed to intimidate healthcare workers and disrupt essential medical services. We categorically condemn these acts and urge all healthcare staff to steer clear of these impostors.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no local government official has the authority to inspect or interfere with the operations of our PHCs without express approval from the Primary Healthcare Board in Osogbo. Any genuine inquiry regarding healthcare administration should be directed to the appropriate authorities and not through unlawful, politically motivated intrusions.
“We have received credible reports that one of the illegal chairmen, Mr. Lanre Balogun from Ilesa East Local Government, on Wednesday, conducted an unauthorized so-called “working visit” to several Public Health Centres, including Okeoye PHC (Ward 8), Irojo PHC (Ward 9), Okesa PHC (Ward 7), Ilemo PHC (Ward 4), and Ijamo PHC (Ward 5). This illegal incursion is a blatant act of lawlessness, and we warn all PHC staff to distance themselves from these unauthorized visitors.
“Disturbingly, these illegal visitors are not coming in peace. Reports indicate that they are moving around with armed thugs and dangerous weapons, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity within our healthcare facilities. This reckless behaviour is not only a threat to our dedicated health workers but also endangers the lives of vulnerable patients who depend on these centres for critical care.
“We want to make it abundantly clear that Osun people must hold these APC operatives accountable for any harm inflicted on our healthcare workers or disruption of medical services. The state government will not fold its arms while political desperadoes put the lives of innocent citizens at risk.
“The health and safety of our medical personnel and patients remain our top priority. As such, we strongly advise all PHC workers to refuse engagement with these illegal visitors. Should they appear at any facility, staff must immediately refer them to the Primary Healthcare Board in Osogbo and continue their work without interference.
“Osun State Government remains committed to protecting public health institutions from political interference. Our administration will not tolerate any attempt to destabilize the healthcare system for selfish political gains. Any individual or group caught disrupting services will be dealt with according to the full weight of the law.
“We call on security agencies to closely monitor this situation and take decisive action against anyone found violating public order. The people of Osun must remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities at healthcare facilities to the appropriate authorities.
“This government stands firmly with healthcare workers and the citizens of Osun State. We will continue to provide an enabling environment for quality healthcare delivery, free from intimidation, violence, or political harassment. Let it be known: Osun State belongs to the people, not to political thugs!” He concluded
