Okowa’s Medical Trip Abroad Sparks Delta Healthcare Debate as GOMEP’S Otiti Questions Eight-Year Health Legacy

By Charity Uwakwe

“A former governor seeking medical treatment abroad has reignited a major conversation about Nigeria’s healthcare system. As questions emerge over Delta State’s health infrastructure, the President of Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers (GOMEP-NG), Comr. Akpovoke Otiti has challenged the legacy of the previous administration, asking why residents and leaders still look beyond the country for specialised medical care.”

“Comr. Akpovoke Otiti criticised former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, over his reported plan to seek medical treatment abroad, arguing that the move exposes gaps in Delta State’s healthcare infrastructure after eight years of administration.”

The reported plan by former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to travel abroad for medical treatment has triggered fresh debate over the state’s healthcare system, with political commentator Comr. Akpovoke Otiti questioning the strength of the healthcare infrastructure developed during Okowa’s eight-year administration.

Otiti, in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja, criticised the development, arguing that it highlights what he described as the failure of successive governments to establish a world-class healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of residents.

According to him, it was disappointing that a former governor who governed Delta State for two consecutive terms could not rely on the medical facilities available within the state but reportedly sought specialised treatment outside the country.

“It is unfortunate that after eight years as governor, Dr. Okowa cannot confidently receive medical care in Delta State. Every administration should be judged not only by the roads and buildings it constructs but also by the strength of its healthcare system.

“Deltans deserved at least one first-class, state-of-the-art hospital capable of providing specialised medical services,” Otiti said.

He maintained that leaders entrusted with managing public resources are expected to establish lasting institutions that serve citizens beyond their tenure, especially in critical sectors such as healthcare.

Otiti further argued that the continued reliance on foreign medical facilities by political leaders reflects the challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare sector, noting that ordinary citizens are often left dependent on local hospitals with limited resources.

He called on current and future administrations in Delta State to prioritise healthcare reforms through the construction and upgrading of specialist hospitals, acquisition of modern medical equipment, and improved welfare packages for healthcare professionals.

According to him, sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure is necessary to reduce medical tourism and ensure that quality healthcare services are accessible to all residents regardless of social or economic background.

The former governor’s reported medical trip has, however, renewed conversations about the need for stronger healthcare institutions across Nigerian states.