No plans to relocate Nakpanduri ambulance – Minister

North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia, has moved to dispel public concerns over the recent relocation of an ambulance from Nakpanduri to Nalerigu, stressing that the move is a temporary emergency measure and not a permanent reassignment.

In a statement issued, the Minister explained that the decision followed a tragic accident on the Nalerigu–Gbintri road on Saturday, 6th September, which claimed several lives and left others critically injured.

At the time of the incident, the East Mamprusi Municipal Assembly’s ambulance was out of service, necessitating the redeployment of the Nakpanduri ambulance to ensure a rapid medical response.

“I wish to state categorically that I have not directed the permanent relocation of the Nakpanduri ambulance to Nalerigu. The sole reason for its deployment was to support emergency response efforts during a tragic situation,” Mr Tia emphasised.

He disclosed that the ambulance is currently stationed at the Baptist Medical Centre (BMC) in Nalerigu, the region’s main referral hospital, until repairs on the East Mamprusi ambulance are completed.

Mr Tia assured the public that the Nakpanduri ambulance will be returned once the repairs are done.

The Minister cautioned against misinformation and the politicisation of the issue, underscoring that the intervention was solely to protect lives.

“This decision must not be misconstrued as a reassignment of ownership. It is a temporary and necessary measure to ensure no lives are lost due to logistical challenges,” he said.

Mr Tia also urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading false information, reaffirming government’s commitment to providing emergency support across all districts in the region.

“Human life must always come first,” he noted.