The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a landmark resolution urging the executive arm of government to procure and install round the clock remote surveillance Closed Circuit Television cameras in all public health facilities across the state.
The lawmakers said the CCTV systems should be independently monitored by the State Ministry of Health and designated complaint desk officers who are not staff of the hospitals. The move is aimed at eliminating medical negligence, improving emergency response, and restoring public confidence in government owned health institutions.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by the member representing Njikoka 1 Constituency, Chidi Ibemeka, during plenary. Ibemeka explained that the initiative seeks to address rising concerns over medical laxity, delayed emergency attention, and unprofessional conduct among some healthcare workers.
He noted that critical units such as Emergency Rooms, Intensive Care Units, and Labour Wards require strict accountability because every second counts in saving lives. According to him, the presence of surveillance cameras would provide an unbiased record of events, protecting patients from negligence while also shielding diligent medical practitioners from false accusations.
Ibemeka referenced public concerns surrounding care at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka, stating that many families now prefer private hospitals due to perceived lapses in public facilities.
Supporting the motion, Majority Leader Ikenna Ofodeme said CCTV footage would serve as documentary evidence in cases of alleged misconduct. Lawmakers Noble Igwe, Tony Muobike, and Patrick Okafor also stressed the need for independent monitoring to curb workplace laxity, reduce distractions, and prevent avoidable deaths.
The Assembly added that constant surveillance would enhance staff safety, discourage solicitation of patients to private clinics, and complement ongoing reforms in the state health sector.
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