Osun Govt mandates hospitals to treat gunshot victims

By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo

Osun State Government has issued a directive to healthcare professionals in State hospitals and medical facilities, mandating them to provide immediate treatment to gunshot victims, even in the absence of a police report.

Commissioner for Health, Barr Jola Akintola, gave this directive in Osogbo, Osun State.

Akintola stated that this directive aligns with the order issued by the Inspector General of Police, regarding the treatment of gunshot victims, the aim of which, according to him, is to enforce the provisions of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act of 2017, without any delay.

He explained that gunshot injuries are medical emergencies where every moment is crucial, in the effort to save the victim’s life, immediate medical attention is essential to prevent permanent damage or fatality.

He encouraged medical personnel, good samaritans, and sympathisers not to fear any implication for providing assistance to gunshot victims, stressing that all hospitals and health care providers in the State should treat gunshot victims promptly, as their lives are at stake.

While asserting that not all gunshot victims are criminals, he clarified that even individuals involved in criminal activities have the right to receive medical care.

Akintola maintained that the previous practice of