A former Minister of Communications and Alternate Chairman of the Renaissance Patriots, Major-General Tajudeen Olanrewaju (rtd), has cautioned against the rumoured plan to demolish Randle General Hospital in Surulere, Lagos.
In a statement, Olanrewaju emphasised the hospital’s historical and cultural significance, warning that such a decision would amount to the destruction of a cherished Lagosian heritage.
He recalled that Randle Hospital was built in 1961 by the Lagos Primary Health Commission in honour of Chief J.K. Randle, a revered Lagosian philanthropist, athlete, socialite and advocate for public health.
According to Olanrewaju, Chief Randle dedicated his life and wealth to fighting diseases such as tuberculosis and rabies during a time when such efforts were both rare and critical.
‘Chief Randle was indeed a demonstrable evidence of a Lagosian who invested his wealth into his community for the greater good of all,’ Olanrewaju stated.
He commended the late icon’s contributions to philanthropy, cultural revival and social intervention, recalling a life that combined medical philanthropy with athletic distinction and civic engagement.
The former minister expressed disbelief at reports suggesting that a top government official may have an interest in the demolition and redevelopment of the hospital.
He, therefore, described the move, if true, as a ‘reckless abuse of public office’ and a ‘trampling upon public trust.’
Olanrewaju said: ‘I do not believe it. This would amount to the destruction of a 64-year-old monument, a gradual eradication of a treasured Lagosian historical landmark. If true, it smacks of partisan ribaldry.’
Rather than demolish the facility, Olanrewaju advised that new primary healthcare centres could be developed on other available government lands within the area.
He proposed portions of the vast grounds surrounding the National Arts Theatre, located within Surulere, Mainland, Apapa and Lagos Island local government jurisdictions, as alternative sites for such projects.
‘Please, do not destroy another Lagosian heritage in the craze for commercial thoughtlessness and partisan aggrandizement,’ he pleaded.
As of press time, there has been no official confirmation or denial from government authorities regarding the alleged plans for the hospital.