Patients, staff, and visitors at the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan are enduring distressing conditions as a result of the prolonged power outage resulting from mounting debt issues.
The tertiary health institution has been plunged into darkness following the disconnection of its power supply by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC). This measure, implemented on Tuesday, 19th March, 2024, stems from the alleged accrued debt totaling over N400 million owed by thehospital.
Although the hospital management contests the exact figure, stating their debt at N241 million, the repercussions of the power cutoff are keenly felt throughout the facility. Reports have it that the hospital is suffering from the impact of the outage on essential services. Medical equipment dependent on electricity, including X-ray machines and diagnostic facilities, lay dormant, forcing patients to seek these services elsewhere.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC), representing various unions within the hospital, has expressed grave concerns. Members report resorting to torchlights to attend to patients, stating the hazardous conditions they face in providing care without adequate illumination.
UCH’s Public Relations Officer, Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed the power cutoff and reiterated efforts to settle outstanding debts. Adetuyibi revealed IBEDC’s demand for an immediate payment of N250 million, a proposition met with difficulty given the disputed debt amount and the hospital’s financial constraints.
Chairman of JAC, Comrade Oludayo Olabampe, called upon governmental and stakeholder intervention to restore power to the hospital.
