Hundreds of residents from Aghalokpe came out to take part in the fifth phase of the Free Diabetes Sensitization and Testing Medical Outreach, an initiative led by Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents Delta Central Senatorial District.
The event, held at the Aghalokpe Primary Health Centre, was organized in collaboration with the National Health Fellows and attracted people of all ages from the community.
By early morning, the health centre was buzzing with activity as elderly residents, pregnant women, and young people lined up for free health checkups. The outreach officially kicked off at 10:00 a.m. with a welcome speech from Pharm. Ojeje Victory, a Health Fellow representing Okpe LGA, who coordinated the program alongside Mr. Sunday Edevwie from Ughelli North LGA, who helped interpret for local participants.
Chief Onome Yegbeburu, speaking on behalf of Senator Dafinone, described the program as part of the Senator’s ongoing dedication to making healthcare accessible throughout Delta Central. “Good health is the backbone of a strong community,” Yegbeburu said. “Senator Dafinone’s vision is to ensure no community misses out on crucial medical services.”
A health education session led by Mr. Chinedu from the World Health Organization highlighted the importance of early detection and managing lifestyle habits to fight diabetes and hypertension. “These illnesses often go undetected until it’s too late,” he warned, encouraging everyone to regularly check their health.
The excitement in the community peaked with the arrival of DNS Evelyn Egbezomo, Medical Officer of Health and Executive Secretary of the Okpe Local Government Health Authority, who was warmly welcomed by the crowd. Many residents saw her presence as a long-overdue acknowledgment of their healthcare needs. “Today, we finally feel seen,” said Mrs. Felicia Oghene, a 70-year-old widow.
Throughout the day, medical staff carried out screenings for blood sugar, blood pressure, and tuberculosis, while an eye clinic offered vision tests and distributed free eyeglasses. By the event’s close, over 120 people had received glasses, and more than 200 benefited from various health services. A pharmacist also held counseling sessions on how to properly manage medications, emphasizing the importance of following prescribed treatments.
Early health data showed some serious concerns. Forty participants had dangerously high blood sugar levels above 300 mg/dl, and another 40 had mildly elevated levels. Blood pressure checks revealed over 60 residents with readings above 150/100 mmHg, and 26 suspected tuberculosis cases were found, highlighting the ongoing need for health education and intervention.
For individuals like farmer Afigbere John, the outreach was a lifesaver. “I’ve struggled with poor vision for months,” he said, adjusting his new glasses with a smile. “The free tests and treatment have made a huge difference.” Mrs. Mary Odioneve, who discovered her high blood pressure during the screening, shared similar gratitude, noting she might have remained unaware of her condition without the program.
As the event wrapped up, DNS Egbezomo praised Senator Dafinone for maintaining the outreach across multiple phases. “This effort goes beyond politics—it’s genuine service to humanity, bringing vital healthcare straight to those who need it most,” she said.
For the people of Aghalokpe, Saturday’s event was more than just a health program—it was a powerful example of what consistent, community-focused leadership can achieve. For Senator Ede Dafinone, the large turnout and thankful faces were proof that his vision for a healthier Delta Central is steadily becoming a reality.
