Since then, I have reached out to stakeholders in Okpella and the health sector to better understand the issues and explore ways of resolving the matter amicably.

I wish to express my sympathy to the management and staff of the hospital, as well as everyone affected by the situation. I recognise the humanitarian spirit behind the hospital’s operations and the important role it has played in providing healthcare services to our people.

Let me assure the good people of Okpella that I will do everything within my reach to ensure that Halimatu Hospital does not leave our community. Its continued presence and services are important to the health and well-being of our people.

The health of our people is paramount and sacrosanct. Access to quality healthcare must not become a casualty of disagreements or misunderstandings. I believe that dialogue, mutual understanding and constructive engagement offer the best path to a lasting solution.

As your representative, I remain committed to facilitating a peaceful resolution and ensuring that the hospital bounces back and continues its operations for the benefit of the people of Okpella and neighbouring communities.

I therefore appeal to all parties involved to exercise restraint, embrace dialogue and put the collective interest of our people first.

Okpella deserves accessible and quality healthcare. The welfare of our people remains my priority, and I will continue to do all I can to protect their interests.