Lagos Hospital Faces Backlash For Refusing Treatment Over ₦500,000 Deposit

Lagos Hospital Faces Backlash For Refusing Treatment Over ₦500,000 Deposit

A private hospital in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos State is facing public outrage after reportedly refusing to treat a pregnant woman, Kemi, due to her husband’s inability to make an immediate ₦500,000 deposit. The incident has sparked widespread criticism, with many calling for accountability, though the hospital has yet to respond publicly….READ MORE…

The tragic incident, first shared by the woman’s husband, Akinbobola Folajimi, in February, gained renewed attention on social media on Tuesday, intensifying public outrage. Reports indicate that the hospital, whose name remains undisclosed, denied Kemi emergency care, insisting on the upfront deposit before any medical attention could be provided. A viral video shows a distressed Folajimi pleading with his wife to stay conscious as she became visibly unwell.

In a subsequent post, Folajimi recounted the heartbreaking events. After being turned away, the hospital referred them to the General Hospital in Epe, a location he claimed was too far for his wife’s critical condition. Tragically, Kemi passed away during the journey. Folajimi shared that despite his pleas to the doctor to start treatment while he arranged for the payment, they refused, resulting in the fatal outcome.

Despite efforts by media outlets to reach the hospital for comment, no response was received. The incident has fueled public demands for urgent reforms in the healthcare system, particularly regarding emergency care. Dr. Femi Yekinni, a university lecturer, called for legislative action, emphasizing the need for hospitals to prioritize saving lives before discussing payment. Others, such as Anthony Kene, have criticized hospitals for turning away patients in emergencies, regardless of financial constraints.

The incident has also sparked mixed reactions regarding Folajimi’s actions. While many sympathized with him, others questioned his choice of a private facility over a public hospital and criticized him for recording the distressing video instead of focusing on getting help for his wife.

This event has reignited concerns about the commercialization of healthcare in Nigeria, particularly in emergencies, with growing calls for legislation to ensure immediate treatment for emergency patients, with payment issues addressed afterward.