In an unexpected turn of events, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, senator representing Delta North senatorial district, made an unplanned stop at the Asaba Specialist Hospital, on May 29, where he embarked on an emotional journey through the hospital’s wards.
The visit proved to be a profoundly moving experience for him, particularly when he entered the children’s ward, where tears welled up in his eyes at the sight of young patients in need.
Engaging in a conversation with Dr. Peace Ighowese, the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Nwoko sought answers regarding the distressing state of the facility despite its high patient capacity.
Responding, Dr. Ighowese highlighted the issue of brain drain, emphasizing that many well-trained doctors had migrated abroad.
“The major challenge we face is brain drain. Many of our skilled doctors have chosen to work abroad, creating a shortage of well-trained medical staff. Even with permission to hire more personnel, we struggle to find qualified individuals as they have all pursued opportunities overseas. However, we do appreciate the support provided by the state government,” she said.
Dr. Ighowese further revealed that some patients, although medically fit to be discharged, were unable to leave due to their inability to afford the hospital bills.
Nwoko, who had previously acknowledged the former governor’s efforts in infrastructure development, candidly expressed his belief that the health sector should take precedence.
He stressed that the government must prioritize initiatives that directly benefit the common man, with accessible and affordable healthcare topping the list.
“The government must prioritize what truly benefits the common man, and accessible healthcare facilities are paramount,” Nwoko stated.
The Senator shared his intention to discuss with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other representatives on the need for the establishment of at least two world-class hospitals in every local government area.
According to him, these hospitals would offer top-notch medical treatments to patients at minimal or no cost, mirroring international standards of care.
“Building and equipping the hospitals is not enough, we must make conscious effort in training more medical personnel and ensure that they are well paid for their services.
“From what I have gathered, the major reason they choose to work abroad is because they are underpaid here. We need more medical personnel to man the equipment,” Nwoko added.
In a show of solidarity, Barrister Bridget Anyafulu, member representing Oshimili South state constituency in Delta state house of assembly, joined Senator Nwoko at the hospital. Together, they voiced their support for the prioritization of the healthcare sector by the state government.
Before departing, Nwoko requested the bills of patients in the children’s ward and those who had completed their treatments but were unable to pay. The senator paid the bills totalling over N4million.
