Olusegun Ariyos
Mr Titus Akhigbe, the former Secretary of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, lamented that three hospitals rejected his wife when she needed medical attention.
Akhigbe disclosed this while recounting how his 45-year-old wife, Mrs Irene Akhigbe, died when the leadership and members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the State’s Council paid him a condolence visit in Benin City.
While describing her passing as shocking and unexpected, he noted that if she had gotten immediate medical attention she would probably have been alive.
“My wife attended the crossover service on December 31, 2023. She returned home with the children, prepared breakfast, and later went out for a visit to our neighbourhood on January 1.
“Hours later, she called my son, saying she felt faint on her way back home.
“We rushed to her location and took her to three different hospitals before she was finally admitted to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
“Despite all efforts, she passed away at 12:15 am on January 2, 2025,” he said.
Earlier, Mrs Nefishetu Yakubu, the chairman of the chapel who led members on the condolence visit, described the loss of a loved one as a deeply painful experience.
Yakubu, who expressed sympathy to the bereaved, urged the family to find solace in God.
“The death of a loved one is always devastating; however, we pray that God Almighty will comfort you, your children, and the entire family she left behind.
“Words may fail us, but we stand with you in this trying time.
“I am trying so hard not to be emotional because as a mother, I can only imagine the pains and confusion the children are enduring right now.
“This is a time for us to collectively provide them with the love and support they need. God will step in and be their mother and provider.”
The Chapel members offered prayers for the repose of the late Irene’s soul and pledged their continued support to Akhigbe and his family during the difficult time.
