The Kaduna State gubernatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rt. Hon. Isa Mohammed Ashiru, has cautioned Governor Uba Sani against relocating a section of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital to the Specialist Hospital in Millennium City amid persistent security concerns in parts of Kaduna State.
In a statement signed Abdulwaheed Olayinka Adubi,Chief Press Secretary/Spokesman to Rt. Hon. Isa Mohammed Ashiru,Kaduna State Gubernatorial Candidate, African Democratic Congress (ADC),Ashiru described the proposed relocation as potentially counterproductive, stressing that decisions affecting critical healthcare infrastructure must be guided by public safety, operational efficiency and the welfare of patients and healthcare workers.
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He expressed concern that relocating part of a major healthcare institution at a time when residents are grappling with insecurity could create additional challenges for patients, their families and medical personnel, particularly those who depend on accessible and affordable public healthcare services.
According to Ashiru, the state government must carefully assess the implications of the proposed relocation, including its potential impact on emergency medical services, patient referrals, access to specialised treatment and the movement of healthcare personnel, without compromising the quality of care.
He maintained that the priority of any responsible government should be to strengthen security around public institutions and ensure that residents can access essential medical services without unnecessary hardship or disruption.
“Healthcare decisions of this magnitude must be driven by the needs and welfare of the people, not merely by administrative convenience. At a time when insecurity remains a major concern for many residents, the government must carefully consider whether relocating part of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital will improve healthcare delivery or create additional challenges for patients and medical personnel,” Ashiru said.
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The ADC candidate further urged the state government to consult relevant stakeholders, including the hospital’s management, healthcare professionals, patients’ representatives and community leaders, before implementing any decision that could significantly affect the delivery of healthcare services.
Ashiru emphasised that Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital remains a critical healthcare institution serving the people of Kaduna State and that any restructuring of its operations must be based on demonstrable public benefit, adequate planning and transparent consultation.
He also called on the Uba Sani administration to prioritise measures aimed at improving the security of healthcare facilities, strengthening emergency response systems and ensuring that patients can receive timely medical attention without being exposed to avoidable risks.
The former lawmaker stressed that the people of Kaduna State deserve a healthcare system that is accessible, reliable and responsive to their needs, particularly at a time when security concerns are placing additional pressure on communities.
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He therefore urged the state government to reconsider the proposed relocation and thoroughly evaluate its implications until the relevant security concerns have been adequately addressed.
Ashiru reiterated that the protection of lives and the welfare of citizens must remain central to government policy, insisting that decisions concerning healthcare infrastructure should strengthen public confidence, improve service delivery and safeguard access to essential medical services rather than createfurther uncertainty.