Rivers Government investigates claims a hospital kept a baby and grandmother over unpaid bills.
Officials say the case is being reviewed after concerns surfaced on social media Monday.
The Rivers State Government has moved to address a disturbing report that a private hospital allegedly held a baby boy and his grandmother in custody for a year due to unpaid medical fees.
A social media post shared by a concerned citizen, Emeka Amaefula, included a letter signed by Dr. Tari Bozimo highlighting the family’s situation and seeking public support.
According to the account, the baby’s mother died shortly after delivering her pre-term son. The hospital reportedly kept the newborn in an incubator and provided medical care, but later issued a bill of N6 million. The family was able to pay N1.4 million, leaving a large outstanding balance.
It is alleged that the hospital has refused to release the child and his grandmother who has been staying to care for him until the remaining fees are settled.
The Rivers Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, said she became aware of the matter after seeing the post online early Monday. She stated that the hospital had already been contacted and assured the public that the ministry would provide further updates as they intervene.
