Tension Rises As Presidency Accuses Obaseki Of Blocking Fistula Centre In Benin City

The Presidency has detailed how former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, posed obstacles to the establishment of a National Obstetrics Fistula Centre in Benin City, the state capital.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement shared with journalists, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, revealed that President Bola Tinubu made this known during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the centre’s establishment in Edo State.

Represented by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Ishaq Salako, President Tinubu led a delegation to the State Government House for the official signing ceremony.

Salako explained that although the National Obstetrics Fistula Centre was initially set up in Benin City in May 2023—prior to Tinubu’s assumption of office—the project faced significant resistance from the Obaseki-led administration.

“We encountered challenges from May 2023 until November 2024, when you [Okpebholo] became Governor of Edo State. However, in just three months under your leadership, we’ve accomplished what we couldn’t achieve in nearly two years,” Salako stated.

He expressed gratitude for the current administration’s support, highlighting the establishment of a temporary centre now operational in Benin City. Additionally, 24 hectares of land have been allocated for a permanent facility.

“You have shown that you are a political son of the President, prioritizing healthcare in Edo State, just as it is being done at the federal level,” Salako added.

President Tinubu emphasized that fistula remains a critical health concern, with Nigeria bearing the highest global burden of cases—approximately 12,000 annually.

He further stressed that fistula extends beyond a medical condition, affecting social and psychological well-being, with some sufferers resorting to suicide.

In response to this crisis, the Federal Government has launched a free fistula management programme, offering both medical treatment and social rehabilitation for affected individuals.