As the world marks World Health Day, residents of Elele Alimini in Emohua Local Council Area of Rivers State have raised concerns about the non-functioning of a public health facility in the community.

Findings by The Guardian revealed that the only health facility serving the area has been abandoned for years and is now dilapidated, with critical infrastructure vandalised by hoodlums.

The paramount ruler of Elele Alimini, Eze Peter Wagbara, lamented that repeated appeals to relevant authorities, including the State House of Assembly, to rehabilitate and reactivate the hospital had yielded no results.

“The hospital remains unattended, inactive and overgrown with weeds. It is unfortunate,” he said.

Residents, particularly women, decried the hardship caused by the absence of a functional healthcare centre, noting that accessing medical care has become increasingly difficult.

According to them, sick persons are often compelled to travel long distances to Choba or Ahoada, about a 1.5-hour drive, to receive treatment.

An elder in the community, Hyginus Opaka, described the situation as dire, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women who must travel far for antenatal care and treatment.

Another community leader added that residents now rely heavily on private health facilities, which are often unaffordable. “We need a nearby functional hospital,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery across the state. In a goodwill message to mark World Health Day, the governor pledged to prioritise initiatives that ensure residents have access to quality, affordable healthcare.

He urged citizens to adopt healthy lifestyles, maintain proper hygiene, and take preventive measures against diseases, while also emphasising the role of communities in promoting health awareness.