Patients and their families at University College Hospital, UCH in Ibadan, Oyo State created a scene on Monday after embarking on protest at the hospital’s premises
The visibly angry patients showed thier grievances over prolonged electricity and water shortages at UCH.
The protest follows a 17-day power disconnection by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company due to unpaid bills.
The power cut has severely affected essential services at the hospital, halting surgeries, diagnostic tests, and other critical medical procedures.
In a video shared by Oyo Affairs on X.com, protesters gathered at the hospital, expressing frustration over the blackout, which they say has caused delays in patient care, including postponed test results.
The protesters highlighted the added strain on patients, especially those in critical condition, while others have faced postponed surgeries.
One of the protesters was heard saying, “Stop killing people. People are dying here. The managers are thieves. We need light.”
UCH management has confirmed the development, explaining that the hospital is billed under the “Band A” electricity tariff structure, which requires a monthly payment of N80 million.
It appealed to the Federal Government to come to the institution’s aid regarding a prolonged power outage.
Reacting to a power outage at the UCH on Monday, Olabampe told newsmen that the hospital needs assistance to survive.
The UCH has not had light since October 26 when the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) disconnected the hospital due to accumulated debts.
Olabampe, who decried the bill from IBEDC as alarming and outrageous for a hospital such as UCH, said the government must assist the health facility.
“The bill is killing. IBEDC put UCH on Band A but we can’t afford the bill of Band A.
“This is why the hospital management told the company to remove UCH from Band A and put it in Band B. But it (IBEDC) did not.
“So, we now want the government to prevail on IBEDC to return UCH to Band B where it can afford to pay.
“Philanthropists and well-meaning Nigerians should also come to UCH’s aid and support it,” he said.
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