By Jimmy Jackson
The Cross River State Government has initiated a comprehensive exercise to remove mentally challenged individuals from the streets of Calabar, the state’s capital.
This effort follows the recent commissioning of a mental holding center by the Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu as part of his administration’s one-year celebrations in office.
The newly established center serves as an initial response facility designed to provide immediate care and rehabilitation for mentally challenged individuals found in the city. The exercise, managed by the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA), aims to address the pressing issue of mental health in the metropolis proactively.
At the commencement of the initiative, the holding center had already registered over 30 inmates. Chief Effiong Ayi, the executive secretary of CUDA, highlighted the primary objective of the exercise: “The primary goal of this exercise is to eliminate the large presence of mentally challenged individuals in our metropolis and facilitate their rehabilitation, enabling them to lead productive lives within our society.”
Chief Ayi emphasized the urgency of the operation due to the increasing number of mentally challenged persons causing disturbances within the city. “The completion and reopening of the remand center by the governor prompted this exercise. The exponential increase in the number of mentally challenged individuals has brought about various challenges and disturbances within the metropolis,” he stated.
The facility, remodeled and reconstructed in under three weeks, is equipped with essential amenities including electricity, a standby generator, water supply, and cooking facilities to ensure the well-being of its residents. Chief Ayi assured that the center meets all required standards for such facilities.
He further explained the planned rehabilitation process: “As soon as the governor officially reopened the center, we initiated the evacuation of mentally challenged individuals. They will be provided with the care and treatment they require, and once they regain sanity, they will be reintegrated into society. As of now, we are accommodating over 30 patients.”
This initiative not only aims to resolve the immediate concerns related to mentally challenged individuals in Calabar but also aligns with best practices in maintaining a safe and serene metropolis. The state’s approach signifies a significant step towards improving public health and safety, ensuring that those affected receive the necessary support and rehabilitation to reintegrate successfully into society.
