Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has taken care of the medical expenses for a mother and her newborn, who had been detained for more than two weeks at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Edo State due to unpaid bills.
In addition to addressing the outstanding charges, the Governor also facilitated the discharge of both the mother and child.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Health, Precious Ogboru, and Executive Assistant, James Iorkusah, Okpebholo visited the mother and infant at UBTH, emphasizing the State Government’s dedication to the health and welfare of its residents, particularly the vulnerable.
The Governor reinforced that his administration prioritizes the well-being of Edo residents, pledging to introduce health intervention programs across the state to assist those in need.
Ogboru and Iorkusah stated: “This initiative is in line with the SHINE transformational agenda of Governor Okpebholo’s administration in Edo State.
“Upon hearing about this situation, the Governor immediately directed us to ensure the medical expenses were settled first thing this (Saturday) morning. This action exemplifies the compassionate leadership characteristic of Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
“Plans are being developed to launch a comprehensive health support initiative statewide, aimed at helping low-income residents, with some beneficiaries already receiving assistance prior to the official rollout.”
Mr. Innocent Akpan, the family’s representative, expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for his timely intervention, which led to the release of his wife, Mercy Bassey, and their newborn.
Akpan remarked: “I am filled with joy. For over two weeks, my wife and baby were kept here (UBTH) because we couldn’t pay the hospital fees.
“Today (Saturday morning), thanks to the kindness of the Edo State governor, we are going home. God bless him (Okpebholo).”
Dr. Joshua Uwaila, Head of Public Relations and Protocol at UBTH, praised the Governor’s swift action, describing it as a true display of compassion and responsive leadership.
Edo Gov covers medical expenses for a detained mother and her newborn.
