A coalition of concerned stakeholders. has issued a passionate plea for government bodies, corporate organisations, and philanthropists to rally behind the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, as the institution grapples with a severe energy crisis that threatens patient safety and welfare.
The call came in the wake of a power outage that has persisted since October 26, when the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) disconnected UCH’s electricity supply due to significant outstanding debts.
Meanwhile, the ongoing failure of power supply has raised alarm bells among community leaders and health advocates, who warned that without immediate intervention, lives could be at risk.
In a statement, a representative of the coalition who did not want his name in print emphasised, “We cannot sit idly by while our healthcare system falters under the weight of neglect.”
”The lives of patients and the well-being of our community are at stake. We are calling on the government and corporate organisations to step up and provide the necessary support to restore power to UCH.”
”Prominent figures, including Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, General TY Danjuma (Rtd), and Dr. Habeeb Olamitoye, along with the Old Students Association, have previously contributed substantial resources to support UCH.”
However, the coalition is questioning why both past and current hospital management have been unable to implement sustainable solutions to the recurring energy crisis.
“It is disheartening to see that despite the generous support from well-meaning individuals, the hospital continues to face these challenges. We demand answers from the management,” stated the spokesperson for the group.
The coalition is also advocated increased transparency and accountability from UCH management, adding, “We urge the management to communicate openly with stakeholders and the community about their plans to resolve this crisis. We need to work together to find effective strategies to prevent future power failures.”
“This is a call to action for all of us. We must prioritize our healthcare system and ensure that it can operate without the looming threat of power outages. Together, we can make a difference,” the representative concluded.
