SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT: SENATOR AJIBOLA BASIRU'S ROLE IN ESTABLISHING FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTRE IN OSOGBO

The attention of the general public has been drawn to a recent article highlighting the efforts of Hon. Adewale Gangaria in facilitating the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre in Osogbo. While the article acknowledged Hon. Gangaria's efforts, it failed to give credit to the original sponsor of the bill, Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru.

According to available records, Senator Ajibola Basiru sponsored a bill titled "Federal Medical Centre, Osogbo, Osun State (Establishment) Bill (SB.364)" in 2021. The bill passed the second reading and went for public hearing on April 12, 2022.

The public hearing, which was widely publicized, was attended by notable personalities, including the Ataoja of Osogbo, His Royal Highness, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun. Other attendees included Asiwaju Khamis Tunde Badmus, representatives of professional bodies from Osun State, Retd Justice Kunle Adeigbe, Baba Hassan Sunmonu, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, Hon Adeoye Adelakun, and Hon Akintunde Adegboye, among others.

During the public hearing, robust submissions were made for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre in Osogbo. The Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary) adjourned for further deliberations and recommendations.

It is essential to set the record straight that Senator Ajibola Basiru initiated the bill for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre in Osogbo. Hon. Adewale Gangaria's bill, titled "Federal Medical Centre, Osogbo, Osun State and other Related Matters (HB.782)," is a continuation of the efforts made by Senator Ajibola Basiru.

The House Committee on Health Institutions has submitted its report, which has been adopted by the House. The bill will be sent to the Senate for concurrence and subsequent third reading.

While governance is a continuum, it is essential to acknowledge the efforts of Senator Ajibola Basiru in initiating the bill for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre in Osogbo.

The Alubarika Movement has commended Senator Ajibola Basiru for his efforts in promoting the welfare of the people of Osun State. The movement has also called on the general public to appreciate the senator's contributions to the development of the state.

In conclusion, it is essential to set the record straight and acknowledge the efforts of Senator Ajibola Basiru in initiating the bill for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre in Osogbo.