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KAZEEM AWOJOODU
In a compelling motion presented before the Oyo State House of Assembly today, Hon. W.K. Akintayo, who represents Oluyole Constituency, called for urgent reforms to improve the quality of patient care in private and public hospitals across the state.
The lawmaker decried the rising cases of medical negligence and professional misconduct in private healthcare facilities, warning that the trend poses a grave threat to public health and trust in the medical system.
Hon. Akintayo acknowledged the vital role private hospitals play in the healthcare system, particularly in urban centers like Ibadan, where they provide specialized and accessible services to thousands of residents.
However, he expressed deep concern over a growing pattern of malpractices, citing disturbing reports from media outlets and personal testimonies.
Among the cases highlighted was a shocking incident in which surgical gauze was left inside a patient after an operation, leading to severe complications.
He also recounted a personal experience involving his own child, whose life was endangered due to poor medical handling, and another case of a pregnant woman who lost her baby following a delayed Caesarean section.
“These are not isolated incidents. They reflect a systemic failure in oversight, training, and accountability within many private hospitals. We cannot continue to allow profit-driven motives to override the sanctity of human life.” Hon. Akintayo said
The motion emphasized that some private hospitals operate without qualified nurses or adequately trained personnel, resulting in substandard care.
Hon. Akintayo stressed that such negligence not only endangers lives but also erodes public confidence in both private and public healthcare institutions.
He noted that while public hospitals face their own challenges, the lack of regulation in the private sector has allowed dangerous practices to flourish unchecked.
To address these issues, the House resolved to urge the Executive Arm of Government, through the Ministry of Health, to conduct a comprehensive review of private hospitals in the state.
This review would assess compliance with medical standards and evaluate the competence of healthcare personnel.
The motion also called for mandatory training and certification programs for all healthcare workers in private hospitals, as well as intensified monitoring and evaluation of hospital operations.
Furthermore, Hon. Akintayo advocated for the imposition of strict penalties on facilities found guilty of medical negligence, including fines, license suspensions, and mandatory corrective actions.
He proposed collaboration with professional medical bodies to develop best-practice guidelines for patient care and safety, alongside public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities when seeking medical services.
The motion also recommended the establishment of a transparent and efficient system for reporting and addressing complaints of medical negligence, ensuring that victims have a clear path to justice and redress.
Members of the House expressed strong support for the motion, commending Hon. Akintayo for his courage in spotlighting a critical issue affecting the lives of ordinary citizens.
