By Rotimi Idris
The Senate Leader of the National Assembly, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has launched a free medical outreach for residents of Ekiti.
The Senator representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District officially kicked off the program on Monday in his hometown of Iyin-Ekiti, in partnership with the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ekiti State branch.
The outreach, which will cover all five local government areas in his constituency, will offer free medical services, including hypertension and blood sugar tests, hepatitis screening, consultations for pregnant women, free eyeglasses, family planning counseling, and more.
Speaking with journalists, Bamidele explained that the outreach is vital for helping his constituents understand their health status and providing free treatment for those diagnosed with hidden ailments.
Bamidele, represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Gbenga Banji, emphasized that the initiative is aimed at bringing the dividends of democracy closer to the people, regardless of their age or status.
His words, “Senator Bamidele has passed through various stages of life and understands the importance of giving back to the community. Many people in this district cannot afford medical treatment, leading to undiagnosed illnesses and, in some cases, sudden deaths.
“This outreach is aimed at bringing healthcare services directly to the grassroots, so the people can enjoy the benefits of democracy. We are targeting as many people as possible across the five local government areas in the Senatorial district.”
The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ekiti State branch, Dr. Oreyemi Ifedayo, commended the lawmaker for the initiative, noting that it would help people who are often burdened by out-of-pocket healthcare expenses access free medical care.
“We have specialists available to attend to various medical conditions. This initiative is a wonderful gesture, particularly at a time when healthcare costs are high and many people cannot afford to visit hospitals.”
The Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeola Ajakaye, also hailed Senator Bamidele for launching the outreach in his hometown, describing it as a fitting initiative.
Oba Ajakaye, represented by the Odofinyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Chief Ayodeji Esan, expressed his appreciation, saying the outreach reflects the Senate Leader’s commitment to the welfare of his constituents.
A beneficiary, Ibikunle Olugbonbokun, thanked Bamidele for organizing the outreach, noting that it helped him discover an underlying health issue, for which he is now receiving treatment.