The Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Neda Imasuen, has expressed strong displeasure over the relocation of the South-South Zonal Office of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) from Benin City to Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Imasuen assured constituents that he would escalate the matter to plenary at the Nigerian Senate for legislative scrutiny.
The lawmaker was reacting to a protest statement issued by socio-cultural group Edo First, which accused the current South-South Zonal Director of the NHIA, Obaro Ologbo, of allegedly influencing the relocation for personal convenience.
Calls for Transparency and Equity
In a statement signed by his Media Aide, Moshood Karim, Senator Imasuen described the development as unacceptable and insensitive, stressing that Benin City has historically functioned as a key administrative hub within the South-South region.
He argued that such a decision should not occur without transparent justification and broad consultation, especially when existing zonal structures are being altered.
The Senator referenced an internal memo dated February 4, signed by the NHIA Director of Human Resources, Halima Zakari, which announced the establishment of seven zonal offices nationwide. The memo listed Port Harcourt as the designated location for the South-South Zonal Office.
While acknowledging the Authority’s prerogative to reorganise for operational efficiency, Imasuen insisted that decisions of such magnitude must be guided by fairness, equity and due process.
Senate to Examine Relocation
Senator Imasuen urged residents of Edo South and the wider Edo State to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that he would formally raise the issue at Senate plenary and ensure that the appropriate Senate Committee thoroughly investigates the circumstances surrounding the relocation.
“I will not hesitate to pursue this matter through the relevant legislative channels to ensure that justice and equity prevail,” he stated.
He reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the interests of Edo South and ensuring that federal institutions operate transparently and fairly across all regions of the country.
Broader Implications
The relocation has sparked debate about regional equity in the siting of federal institutions, particularly within the South-South geopolitical zone where administrative presence often carries economic and symbolic significance.
Stakeholders argue that the final resolution of the issue will test the balance between administrative restructuring and equitable regional representation.
