UBTH Health Workers Mourn Colleague Killed In Hospital Premises.
Medical and health workers at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) have been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of their colleague, Dr Alex Ogunniyi, who was fatally shot by suspected gunmen within the hospital premises last Friday.
In response to the shocking incident, staff at the hospital held a peaceful protest and a solemn commendation service to honour the late physiotherapist. The workers called on authorities to take immediate steps to improve security within the hospital environment and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Speaking during the service, the Public Relations Officer of UBTH, Joshua Uwaila, described the killing as deeply unfortunate and a tremendous loss to the medical community. He confirmed that Dr Ogunniyi was on his way to a nearby eatery when the incident occurred.
“A physiotherapist with the University of Benin Teaching Hospital was shot dead on Friday while on the way to have his lunch. It was gathered that a vehicle was chasing another. The one behind was shooting at the one in front, and a stray bullet hit the deceased in the neck. He was taken to the Accident and Emergency department but didn’t make it,” Uwaila explained.
He added that the hospital management had formally written to the Edo State Police Command and copied the Department of State Services (DSS), demanding a full investigation and justice for the slain health worker.
Following the commendation ceremony, Dr Ogunniyi’s body was taken to his hometown for burial, accompanied by grieving family members, friends, and colleagues.
The incident has reignited concerns about the safety of health professionals, particularly those working in high-risk environments. Many at the hospital have appealed to security agencies to treat the matter with urgency and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.
