By Ken Afor
Former President of the Senate Abubakar Saraki has expressed displeasure over the unfortunate death of Greatness Olorunfemi who died on arrival at the Maitama General Hospital in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
On Tuesday, September 26, Olorunfemi was reportedly pushed out from a moving vehicle driven by ‘One-Chance’ syndicate along the Maitama-Kubwa arterial highway.
Olorunfemi, a member of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network, was still conscious when she was rushed to the hospital by some well meaning Nigerians.
Unfortunately, it was alleged that the hospital rejected her and in the process she died.
However, Saraki in a statement shared on his social media page on Saturday, said he was perplexed over the incident and called on the federal government to take drastic action against the management of Maitama General Hospital for rejecting the victim before her death.
He said: “I am devastated to learn about the unfortunate death of Greatness Olorunfemi, who was pushed out of a moving car by hoodlums after being robbed of her valuables and rescued by kindhearted strangers, but was refused medical attention at the Maitama General Hospital in Abuja.
“This heartbreaking case is a reminder of the importance of the law that we designed, passed, and got presidential assent during the tenure of the 8th National Assembly. This piece of legislation was introduced to protect Nigerians who have been victims of violence. However, more needs to be done to ensure that the law is strictly enforced.
“To the Nigerian government, I say this: This is your moment to stand tall, to send an unequivocal message that such injustices will not be tolerated. The Federal Ministry of Health and its Hospital Management Board should thoroughly investigate this case and ensure that justice is swift for the perpetrators.
“I also strongly urge the Ministry of Health to sanction the leadership of the Maitama General Hospital for violating the law. Their refusal to admit a person in need of medical attention goes against the very essence and ethics of their profession.”
Saraki, a former governor of Kwara State, reminded owners of hospitals in the country that their primary responsibility is to save lives. He urged Nigerians to get acquainted with that fact and ensure adherence to it.
He added, “To all hospitals: Remember your Hippocratic Oath. Your primary duty is to save lives. Do not turn away those in need. Uphold the sanctity of your profession and adhere to the law.
“Also, I enjoin all to help in creating awareness about the law and its provisions. Let all Nigerians know about the existence of the law so that we can further ensure adherence to it.
“To the family and friends of Greatness Olorunfemi, I offer my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Your loss is immeasurable, and my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.”
