LOCAL NEWS
NIMBA COUNTY – Residents of Duoyee and surrounding communities in Nimba County are raising concerns over the closure of the Gbeyei Duoyee Clinic, a health facility that serves more than 20 towns and an estimated population of over 4,000 people.
By: Christopher G. Fahn Douyee
Local authorities say the clinic was shut down following an incident that allegedly involved witchcraft accusations, sparking fear and tension within the community.
Speaking to this reporter, Elder Moses Bei, Elder of Gbiyeh Doupa Town, said the closure of the facility has severely affected residents who rely on the clinic for basic healthcare services.
“The closure of this clinic is seriously affecting our people,” Elder Bei said. “Thousands of residents from more than 20 communities depend on this health center for treatment. We are appealing to the Nimba County Health Team to intervene and help reopen the clinic as soon as possible.”
The Acting Town Chief of Duoyee, Elder Theophilus Tenmah, also confirmed the incident that led to the suspension of services at the clinic.
According to community elders, a man identified as Pazee allegedly threw a substance described as dust on Franklin Songaye, who is associated with the Duoyee Clinic. Residents claim that Mr. Songaye later lost his sight.
Witnesses further alleged that after being questioned by community leaders and residents, Pazee admitted involvement and sought forgiveness. However, the claims have not been independently verified by health authorities or law enforcement officials.
The matter has since been transferred to the Magisterial Court in Saclepea for legal proceedings. Community sources say the case is expected to come up for final hearing on Tuesday.
Local elders have yet to determine whether Pazee will be allowed to return to the community following the outcome of the court proceedings.
Meanwhile, residents are calling on health authorities and local leaders to urgently resolve the matter and restore medical services to the affected communities.
They warn that the prolonged closure of the clinic poses a serious threat to public health, particularly for vulnerable residents who depend on the facility for treatment.
The situation highlights the challenges facing rural communities in accessing healthcare and underscores the need for swift intervention to ensure that essential medical services remain available to those in need.
Article Credit: NIMBA TV
