The University of Ibadan College Hospital (UCH) is currently facing a dire situation as it grapples with a staggering electricity bill of N495 million, leading to a disconnection of power supply by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
After enduring a blackout for 14 days, the hospital’s management has reached out to the public, pleading for financial assistance to settle the outstanding debt and mitigate the effects of the power outage.
Speaking exclusively to Medalinks Media Africa Reporter, Mrs. Funmi Adetuyibi, the Public Relations Officer of the hospital, shed light on the financial predicament.
She revealed that the hospital is simply incapable of footing the bill, emphasizing that the debt had been inherited from the previous administration when Professor Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo assumed office on March 1, 2023.
“Truthfully, the UCH management is owing the IBEDC over N400 million. However, the debt was inherited from the previous administration,” Mrs. Adetuyibi explained. She clarified that the total debt isn’t solely attributed to UCH, as the College of Medicine, under the purview of the University of Ibadan, shares part of the burden.
Despite efforts to address the issue through negotiations with IBEDC and partial payments, the hospital management remains overwhelmed by the enormity of the debt. Mrs. Adetuyibi highlighted their attempts at communication with relevant authorities and stakeholders, including ministers, governors, and telecommunications companies, seeking assistance.
“It must be stated that the management is not relaxing on it, and we are not taking IBEDC for granted in any way,” Mrs. Adetuyibi emphasized.
Acknowledging the hospital’s use of solar power as an alternative, she stressed that it’s insufficient to meet the hospital’s energy needs, resulting in increased expenditure on fuel. The situation has compelled UCH to reach out to the public for support in alleviating the financial burden and restoring regular power supply to the hospital.
“We want all Nigerians to come to our aid, and that’s where we are as at today,” Mrs. Adetuyibi concluded.
In response to the hospital’s plea, concerned citizens, organizations, and philanthropists are urged to extend a helping hand to UCH, ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for the community. As the hospital grapples with this financial crisis, collaborative efforts are essential in safeguarding the well-being of patients and maintaining essential medical services.
