DLA seeks independent audit of proposed 500-bed health facilities in Ondo

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Democratic Leadership Alliance, Ondo State chapter, has called for an independent review of the state government’s proposal to provide 500 additional bed spaces across health facilities in the state.

The call was contained in a statement issued Thursday by the DLA State Chairman, Comrade Oluwatosin Ayeni, who said an independent review would promote transparency and ensure that public funds were properly utilised.

The group expressed concern over an alleged disparity between figures contained in the Ministry of Health’s proposal and the estimated value of the project by the contractor.

According to the DLA, the disparity amounts to an average of N61 million per bed space, prompting the group to seek clarification before any payment is made.

Ayeni said the alleged difference of N61 million per unit was too significant to ignore, particularly given that public funds were involved.

Consequently, the DLA urged the state government to subject the proposal to a comprehensive audit to establish the actual cost of the project and address concerns surrounding the figures.

The group also appealed to the State House of Assembly, anti-corruption agencies and civil society organisations to monitor the process and ensure accountability in the implementation of the project.

While stressing the importance of improving healthcare infrastructure in Ondo State, the DLA said the proposed project should be implemented transparently and in a manner that delivers value for public funds.