Bob voiced his dissatisfaction during the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly plenary session on September 11, 2024. His remarks followed a matter of urgent public importance raised by Effiong Johnson, the Member representing Mbo State Constituency and Chief Whip of the House.
Johnson had earlier highlighted the deplorable state of the General Hospital at Awa Iman, Onna Local Government Area. He recounted his visit to the facility, where he found the medical superintendent absent from their post by 10 am despite the state’s substantial investment in sophisticated medical equipment and infrastructure.
Johnson emphasized that such negligence reflects poorly on the state government, asserting that while Governor Umo Eno cannot be held accountable for every detail, the failure of public servants to perform their duties undermines the administration’s efforts.
In his response, Bob stressed that the poor state of public health institutions and the lack of diligence among health staff is tarnishing the reputation of the current administration. He argued that those in positions of responsibility must take their roles seriously or face replacement by individuals committed to serving the state effectively.
Bob remarked, “Public servants and heads of various government agencies should either perform their duties diligently or be replaced with individuals who are ready to work. We have many in this state eager for employment and dedicated to the service of Akwa Ibom.”
In light of these concerns, the House of Assembly has resolved that the State Commissioner for Health, the Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Health and the State Hospital Management Board, as well as the Medical Superintendent of the General Hospital at Awa Iman, appear before the Assembly at the next plenary session scheduled for Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
This move reflects the Assembly’s commitment to addressing the issues raised and ensuring that the state’s health sector operates efficiently and transparently.
