By Dr. Osahon Enabulele
It was with extreme sadness that I received the news of the recent ‘gas’ explosions in Ibadan, around the Bodija area of the city.
While I share the pains and feelings of families of injured victims, it is imperative that thorough investigations are carried out to unearth the possible cause(s) of the unfortunate incidence.
It is equally important that physicians, under the aegis of the Nigerian Medical Association(NMA), show solidarity through provision of urgently needed emergency care for the injured victims. It is in this light that I commend the leadership of Oyo State branch of NMA, for urging colleagues around the Bodija axis to make themselves available.
I also commend the show of concern expressed by the national leadership of the NMA.
However, these calls must be sustained and supported with provision of the needed emergency care materials/supplies. In this regard, the support of private and public institutions/organizations and individuals, will be essential.
Beyond provision of emergency care, physicians, as critical stakeholders under the aegis of the NMA, as well as other stakeholders, need to be involved in the process of investigations, particularly as it concerns the handling of HIAs and other matters, and the implementation of the outcomes/reports. This is one way, amongst others, to avoid a recurrence.
I wish to extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the families who may have lost loved ones in the explosions/inferno, as well as to the people and Government of Oyo State, and our colleagues under the aegis of Oyo State branch of NMA.
I pray for the recovery of the injured victims and a more permanent solution to the incidence of ‘gas’ explosions.
May the souls of those who may have been lost on account of the tragedy, rest in perfect peace.
Dr. Osahon Enabulele,
Immediate Past President,
World Medical Association(WMA).
