By Simeon OSAJIE
Governor Monday Okpebholo, accompanied by Senator Adams Oshiomhole and an array of distinguished government officials, weekend toured the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) to check on survivors of a catastrophic fuel tanker explosion on the Benin-Lagos road, currently hospitalized at UBTH.
The Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, provided the delegation with a comprehensive briefing regarding the clinical trajectory and recuperation of the remaining patients, who form the sole survivors of an initial cohort of eleven admitted in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.
Speaking to newsmen in Benin, Okpebholo expressed his deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Beyond offering solace, Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s steadfast dedication to safeguarding public welfare, pledging comprehensive assistance to all those whose lives have been upended by the calamity.
The high-profile visit to survivors of the Oluku fuel tanker explosion at UBTH has elicited applause from residents, who described the gesture as a clear reflection of the governor’s commitment to bolstering healthcare capacity.
Amidst the catastrophe, Edo residents home and abroad have urged governor Okpebholo to fulfill his pledge to the UBTH specifically the building of the 2.5 billion naira Paediatric Complex, asserting that enduring investments in medical infrastructure remain the cornerstone of sustainable progress throughout Edo State.
A resident identified as Mrs. Grace Amayo said the Governor’s pledge to build a ₦2.5 billion Paediatric Complex at UBTH is a significant commitment to the future of healthcare in Edo State, adding that, Such a facility would strengthen paediatric care, improve access to specialised treatment, and provide a more suitable environment for the healing of children who depend on the hospital.
Amayo said, “Prof. Ize-Iyamu has shown that she is ready to work for the people. Her resourcefulness and commitment should be supported by sustained government investment.
“The restored Burns and Plastic Surgery Ward demonstrates what purposeful leadership can achieve, while the proposed Paediatric Complex offers an opportunity to build something even more enduring. For years, the burns ward, originally built by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) had languished in neglect. A facility meant to treat burn victims had itself become a symbol of abandonment.
“Without waiting for another committee or appeal, Prof. Ize-Iyamu directed that the ward be remodelled and restored to a standard befitting a modern Burns and Plastic Surgery Unit. Thereafter, her vision was immediately turned into reality.”
According to Amayo, then the Oluku fuel tanker tragedy happened on Thursday.The tanker explosion along the Benin–Lagos Highway brought the reality of mass casualties and severe burns into sharp focus. As victims were evacuated to UBTH, the restored ward became more than a renovated facility; it became a lifeline.”
Mrs. Amayo appealed to the governor to see the project through to completion, stressing that, “The pledge should not remain as mere statement, it should become a completed legacy project that will serve generations of children. Children deserve more than promises, and UBTH deserves the infrastructure required to serve them effectively.”