By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
POWER SUPPLY issues at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, have drawn public concern following claims that patients are bringing generators to power hospital wards.
However, the hospital management has denied these allegations, calling them false and misleading.
The hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs. ‘Funmi Adetuyibi, in an official statement, refuted the allegations made in an online report published on February 5, 2025, by Trending Explain (@Trending X).
The report, written by a Gideon Ayeni, alleged that patients were supplying power to hospital wards using personal generators, a claim the hospital says lacks credibility.
“The hospital management wishes to inform the general public that these allegations are entirely false.
“The malice and misrepresentation are evident in the several low-capacity generators displayed by the writer.
“The UCH does not operate these mini generators,” the statement read.
Despite a prolonged power outage following disconnection by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) over unpaid debts running into millions of naira, the hospital reassured the public that it has made significant efforts to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.
“The UCH management is working around the clock to provide alternative and sustainable electricity solutions.
“We have implemented a phased approach, including the provision of alternative energy sources such as solar inverters and diesel-powered generators in critical units, including the wards, accident and emergency, labour ward, and theatres,” the statement further reflected.
UCH management also highlighted its ongoing engagement with stakeholders, including the Federal Government, the supervising ministry, IBEDC, and philanthropic donors, to secure a lasting solution to the power crisis.
Many individuals and organisations have provided financial and material support to sustain operations within the hospital.
The hospital further expressed appreciation for the patience and understanding of patients, their relatives, and the general public during this difficult period.
“We are committed to delivering on our core mandates of clinical services, research, and training despite the current challenges,” the statement emphasised.
FG Delegates Power Minister to Oversee the Situation
Meanwhile, in response to the worsening power situation, the Federal Government has mandated the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, to meet with UCH management to discuss solutions.
The meeting, scheduled for this week at the hospital premises, aims to resolve the electricity supply issues and ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery.
UI Students Protest Prolonged Power Outage
In recent weeks, students of the University of Ibadan (UI), in collaboration with the College of Medicine, staged a peaceful protest to draw attention to the crisis.
Despite their efforts, power remains disconnected at both the hospital and the College of Medicine, exacerbating operational difficulties.
UCH’s Chief Medical Director (CMD), Professor Jesse Otegbayo, reiterated that the online report alleging patient reliance on personal generators was a deliberate distortion of facts.
“These allegations are not only untrue but also misleading. Our hospital has implemented sustainable solutions and continues to work tirelessly to maintain essential healthcare services,” he stated.
He noted that while the hospital awaits further government intervention, UCH management remains committed to finding innovative and sustainable power solutions while ensuring the well-being of patients and staff.
