Senator Adams Oshiomhole has questioned the necessity of a dedicated hospital for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, describing the plan as a diversion from the commission’s primary responsibilities.
Speaking during a recent session, Oshiomhole asked, “Do you have an INEC special disease?” He challenged the idea of INEC running its own medical facility in Abuja, pointing out that the commission already has offices in all 36 states.
He argued that it would be impractical for staff in places such as Benin or Lagos to travel to the capital for medical treatment.
According to Oshiomhole, INEC’s focus should remain on conducting free, fair, and credible elections.
He noted that healthcare is the responsibility of the Ministry of Health, and that INEC should not attempt to provide specialised medical services for its staff.
He also raised concerns about resource allocation, questioning whether INEC would employ specialists for every conceivable medical condition, citing common health issues such as prostate problems or paediatric care.
“This is goal displacement,” he stated, urging the commission to return to its core mandate.
Oshiomhole emphasised that the cost and logistical challenges of running a hospital could detract from INEC’s primary mission of electoral management, suggesting instead that the commission liaise with the Ministry of Health to meet the medical needs of its personnel.
