Gom Mirian
Nigerians took to social media on Saturday to express their outrage and disbelief after a photo surfaced of a sick woman allegedly abandoned by Ibadan hospital officials in front of her husband’s shop.
According to eyewitness Remilekun Tawose, the officials claimed that the woman, named Blessing, had been left at the hospital since 2023.
The hospital officials justified their actions by stating that Blessing’s husband and family members had refused to take responsibility for her mounting medical bills.
In desperation, the hospital decided to bring her to her husband’s shop, where he sells alcoholic beverages.
The hospital stated that they had tried on multiple occasions to approach the husband to discuss the medical bills but received no response. Confused and left with no other options, they resorted to leaving Blessing in front of his shop.
The incident drew a crowd of concerned residents who watched helplessly as the sick woman lay on the ground, frail and exposed to the scorching sun.
Hospital representatives informed the gathered crowd that Blessing’s ailment was contagious, further raising concerns about the public health risks created by her abandonment.
Nigerians took to social media to express their outrage and demand justice. Many criticized the hospital for their heartless actions, calling for legal action to be taken against them.
An Instagram user @videodumpyoutube pointed out the stark difference between Nigeria’s healthcare system and those in countries like Canada and the UK, where healthcare is free. Stating, “Healthcare is free in Canada and the UK. But ‘Ronus’ is healing, defending politicians who are stealing from the masses. Femi Gbajabiamila approved N3 billion for nothing and everyone is quiet, all the money they’re stealing is enough for free healthcare or at least subsidize healthcare.”
Others, like @i_amdara90, highlighted the lack of compassion and support from family and friends during difficult times. “What kind of hospital will dump a sick woman with a contagious ailment in the open? sue that hospital first,” @chioma Johnson wrote.
The incident highlights the ongoing struggles faced by many Nigerians in accessing affordable healthcare. It also sheds light on the failings of the healthcare system and the need for reforms to ensure that all citizens have access to quality medical care, regardless of their financial circumstances.
