The Ekiti State Government has directed hospitals in the state to immediately treat gunshot victims when they are brought to their facilities, without requiring a police report, News About Nigeria reports.
This directive was issued by the Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, in response to an order from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The State Inspector of Police stated that hospitals must comply with and enforce the provisions of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act of 2017 without any hesitation.
The Commissioner for Health issued the directive in a statement titled ‘Approval of Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017,’ which was released on Monday in Ado-Ekiti.
Dr. Filani emphasized that gunshot injuries require immediate medical attention, and delaying a victim’s treatment due to a lack of a police report could result in the victim’s death.
He stated, ‘Gunshot injuries are generally a medical emergency where every minute counts in the effort to preserve the life of the victim. Urgent medical attention is necessary to prevent permanent damage or the death of the victim.’
Oyebanji further urged the people of the state, medical professionals, good Samaritans, and sympathizers to overcome their fear of being implicated in assisting gunshot victims.
He also assured health facilities in the state of the support and continuous collaboration from Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to enhance healthcare service delivery.”
