A Taraba State-based activist, Abdulmumin Imam, has criticised the state government over what he described as inadequate healthcare infrastructure, particularly the alleged lack of functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, MRI, and Computed Tomography, CT, scan facilities in the state.
Imam raised the concern on Monday in a statement titled, “Governor Kefas, For How Long?”, questioning why Taraba, with its 16 local government areas, allegedly lacks functional MRI and CT scan machines accessible to residents.
He said the situation puts ordinary residents at a disadvantage whenever they require advanced diagnostic services that are unavailable in the state.
According to him, residents are often forced to travel outside Taraba to access specialised diagnostic services, while political office holders and government officials allegedly have access to medical arrangements.
Imam also claimed that a consultant recently told him that a patient died while being transported to Yola, Adamawa State, to undergo a CT scan.
“If an ordinary Taraban needs an MRI or CT scan, there isn’t even a machine to use,” he said.
The activist argued that the situation should prompt the state government to review its healthcare priorities and invest in modern diagnostic equipment.
He said functional MRI and CT scan facilities would not only improve access to healthcare and potentially save lives but could also generate revenue for the state through diagnostic services.
“So Governor Kefas, why can’t Taraba have them?” Imam asked.
He further questioned how many residents would have to travel hundreds of kilometres to access advanced diagnostic services before such equipment would become a priority for the state government.
Imam called for urgent investment in healthcare infrastructure and improved access to advanced diagnostic services across Taraba State.
