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The Bayelsa State Government has evacuated about 15 persons experiencing mental health challenges from the streets of Yenagoa for medical treatment, rehabilitation and possible reintegration into society.
The exercise was carried out by a team of medical doctors, social welfare officers and rehabilitation personnel under the supervision of the Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, Hon. Joanah Gigi.
The affected persons were taken to a specialist hospital for immediate medical attention.
Gigi said the intervention was undertaken on the directive of Governor Douye Diri to restore the health, dignity and wellbeing of vulnerable persons living on the streets.
She explained that the number evacuated in the first phase was limited by the availability of bed spaces at the hospital.
According to her, the government would continue the exercise to identify and assist other persons still living on the streets.
“So far, we’ve been able to capture few due to bed space at the hospital. After this, we shall go for the rest,” she said.
The Commissioner said the current phase of the programme was focused on Yenagoa metropolis, where a number of vulnerable persons had been identified.
She disclosed that the initial medical treatment was expected to last about three weeks, depending on the response of the patients.
Gigi said the government would also work to establish the identities and places of origin of those who recover, with a view to facilitating their return to their communities where necessary.
“Once they gain their senses, we’ll ask them where they come from. Then the government has to repatriate them,” she said.
The Commissioner described the intervention as a collaborative effort between the state government and the Ministry of Women Affairs aimed at protecting vulnerable people in the state.
She commended Governor Diri for extending the intervention to non-indigenes, stressing that all vulnerable persons residing in Bayelsa deserve access to government support.
“Providing you are in Bayelsa State, you are one; we are one Bayelsans. So he never discriminates,” Gigi said.
The exercise coincided with activities marking the 30th anniversary of the creation of Bayelsa State.
Gigi congratulated Bayelsans on the anniversary and also joined residents in acknowledging Nigeria’s Independence anniversary.
She said the intervention formed part of the government’s broader efforts to protect vulnerable persons, promote their dignity and welfare, and support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
