Governor Okpebholo takes over medical bills of truck-hit student

The Edo State Government has stepped in to foot the medical bills of Miss Elizabeth Obi, a 22 year old student battling for recovery after a ghastly accident involving a truck along the Auchi axis of the Benin-Auchi Expressway on September 7, 2024.

Elizabeth, a final-year student, has been receiving treatment at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), where she initially spent days in the intensive care unit. Though her condition has stabilized, doctors say she urgently requires a laser surgery to correct a breathing obstruction which is an advanced procedure currently unavailable at ISTH due to lack of equipment.

During a visit to the hospital, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, conveyed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s directive that the state government will bear the full cost of Elizabeth’s treatment, including the specialized surgery expected to be performed in Kaduna.

“The governor was deeply touched by Elizabeth’s ordeal and is determined to see her not only recover but continue her academic journey without disruption,” Dr. Iyamu told reporters.

Hospital officials, led by the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Dr. Obagaye Olakunle Michael, confirmed Elizabeth’s progress but stressed the urgency of the pending surgery.

The case gained traction after widespread social media advocacy, drawing attention to the student’s plight and prompting swift government intervention.

Governor Okpebholo, through his delegation, reaffirmed that his administration would prioritize the welfare of Edo citizens, especially students facing unforeseen hardships.

“This intervention is not just about medical bills, it’s about ensuring that no student’s future is cut short because of financial constraints,” Dr. Iyamu said.