Photo collage of Pota PHC in Badagry? Lagos
A growing wave of concern has greeted the worsening condition of the Pota Primary Health Centre in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State, as residents and health workers decry years of government inaction that have left the facility in a state of abandonment and disrepair.
The health centre, which serves over 40 communities and 15 towns, is currently grappling with severe infrastructural decay, lack of electricity, and safety concerns, including recurring snake infestations.
Health workers, speaking under anonymity, said more than 20 snakes have been killed in different parts of the facility in recent months, from the labour room to consulting areas and toilets.
“This place is barely functional,” one health worker lamented. “Beyond the snakes, we have no light at night. We use candles and a single solar bulb to deliver babies and handle emergencies.”
A visit to the facility confirmed the poor state of its infrastructure. The consulting rooms are in disuse, windows are broken, and the structure appears largely abandoned.
Although a generator was reportedly donated by a well-meaning organisation, it has remained idle due to the absence of fuel supply support.
The last notable intervention at the centre, according to staff, came from Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, who through his foundation donated hospital beds and wheelchairs in 2021.
Since then, neither the local government nor the state government has undertaken significant rehabilitation efforts.
Despite several letters and appeals submitted to the authorities, health workers say the feedback has been largely noncommittal.
“Officials visit occasionally, take a look around, and make promises. But the situation remains the same,” another staff member noted.
Residents expressed disappointment over what they describe as a lack of responsiveness from the authorities. “We understand that government is building new centres, like the one recently opened in Ajido, but what happens to existing ones like Pota PHC?” asked a local resident.
The challenge is further compounded by the deplorable condition of the Mowo–Ikoga–Zebbe Road, the primary access route to the health centre. The road becomes virtually impassable during the rainy season, with reports of schoolchildren drowning in its flooded portions.
The state of Pota PHC raises serious questions about the inclusiveness of the state government’s THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritises infrastructure renewal, health, and human development.
“This facility has the potential to serve thousands efficiently, but without intervention, it risks total collapse,” a community leader said.
As at press time, no response had been issued by the Lagos State Ministry of Health or Badagry Local Government.
Community members are now calling for urgent government attention to revitalise the centre and improve road access to ensure safe and effective healthcare delivery in the region.