By Peter Dansu The Lagos State Government has reportedly responded swiftly to the public outcry sparked by a viral investigative report fro...
By Peter Dansu
The Lagos State Government has reportedly responded swiftly to the public outcry sparked by a viral investigative report from Badagry Today exposing the horrifying state of disrepair and snake infestation at the Pota Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Badagry.
The damning report, which circulated widely across social media and news platforms, painted a grim picture of the once-functional health facility, now overrun by bush, reptiles, and neglect — a stark symbol of the long-standing abandonment of primary healthcare in rural Lagos communities.
The report did not only reveal the dilapidated infrastructure but also highlighted the deafening silence of key political figures from the area, despite their positions in the state government.
“It’s beyond negligence. It’s betrayal,” said a frustrated resident, echoing the feelings of many in the Pota community. “Snakes have taken over what used to be our only hope in times of emergency.”
However, following the public pressure, Lagos State authorities have now waded in a report by Daily Times has said
Speaking to journalists, the Permanent Secretary for Health District 5, Dr. Oladapo Asiyanbi, acknowledged the gravity of the situation.
“Yes, the PHC is deplorable,” he said. “You know this is a facility that the Local Government is in charge of, but when I got the information, I spoke with the chairman, and as I am talking to you, engineers have already gone there to assess the situation.”
According to Daily Times, Dr. Asiyanbi confirmed that preliminary remediation steps have already commenced.
“The grass has been cut and the entire area has been fumigated. But don’t forget, the current council chairman will be leaving office in a few days. I will also speak with the incoming chairman. Construction takes time, but I assure you, the facility will be reconstructed,” he stated.
The viral report, which some have described as a “wake-up call,” had earlier criticized the outgoing Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Onilude Segun Adeniran, for failing to respond to inquiries. According to the report, multiple attempts to get a comment from him were ignored.
Observers believe the state’s quick intervention is a direct result of the widespread public backlash.
Civil society groups have commended the move but insist that beyond promises, timelines and action must follow.
“This should not be a one-time response,” said Tope Okediran, a health rights advocate. “This must mark the beginning of a larger commitment to restoring healthcare infrastructure in all neglected parts of Lagos.”
As the local government transitions into a new administration, hopes are now high that the incoming leadership will prioritize the health and dignity of the people — ensuring that never again will snakes and shadows be allowed to haunt a public hospital.
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