society
Shot And Turned Away: When Hospitals Demand Police Reports Before Saving Lives
Shot And Turned Away: When Hospitals Demand Police Reports Before Saving Lives
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
“How Nigerian Law Confronts a Deadly Culture of Bureaucracy in Emergency Care.”
When a gunshot victim is rushed into a Nigerian hospital, the law is unequivocal: treatment must come first. Yet, across the country, allegations persist that some medical facilities still demand police reports before administering emergency care; a practice that lawmakers have expressly outlawed.
The legal framework is clear. Section 20 of the National Health Act provides that a health care provider “shall not refuse a person emergency medical treatment for any reason whatsoever.” The wording is deliberate and absolute. Gunshot wounds, by medical definition, constitute emergencies.
To close loopholes and confront what officials once described as a “culture of avoidable deaths,” the National Assembly enacted the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act. The law mandates all public and private hospitals to treat gunshot victims immediately, without demanding police clearance or advance payment. It further criminalises any attempt (including by law enforcement officers) to obstruct treatment.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki, who presided over the passage of the 2017 Act, described it at the time as “a life-saving intervention to end needless bureaucracy that costs human lives.” Legal scholars have echoed that position. Professor Chidi Odinkalu, a former chair of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, has consistently argued that emergency care is not a privilege but “a constitutional and human rights imperative rooted in the right to life.”
Medical ethics experts are equally firm. Dr. Osahon Enabulele, former president of the World Medical Association, has noted that “the primary duty of every physician is preservation of life. Administrative processes must never supersede clinical urgency.”
Hospitals are indeed required to notify the police when treating gunshot wounds, largely for investigative and security purposes. However, legal authorities stress that notification is not a precondition to treatment. It follows care; it does not precede it.
Failure to comply carries potential criminal liability under the 2017 Act, including fines and imprisonment for responsible officials. Where delayed treatment results in death, civil and criminal proceedings may arise under Nigeria’s broader legal framework governing negligence and wrongful death.
Despite the clarity of the statutes, enforcement remains uneven. Human rights advocates continue to document complaints, though comprehensive nationwide data on prosecutions under the Act is limited.
The law’s message, however, is unmistakable: oxygen must never wait for paperwork. In a country grappling with security challenges, the line between life and death can be measured in minutes. The courts, the legislature and medical ethics are aligned; emergency care is an obligation, not an option.
*PDP CHIEFTAIN, ONIRETI RESIGNS FROM PARTY, CITES PERSONAL REFLECTION
A former House of Representatives candidate, Olufemi Onireti, has formally resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State.
His resignation was conveyed in a letter addressed to the Chairman of PDP Osupa Ward 9, Ogbomoso North Local Government, on Thursday.
Onireti described the decision as a difficult but necessary step after what he termed a period of “deep personal reflection.”
“I hereby formally resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately,” he wrote.
He acknowledged his years of active involvement in the party, including contesting for the House of Representatives in the last general election, noting that the PDP had offered him a platform for political participation, service, and growth.
Despite his exit, Onireti expressed appreciation to party leaders and members for the support he enjoyed over the years.
“I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve and for the relationships and experiences I gained during my time in the party.
I wish the party well in its future endeavours,” he added.
The development is expected to generate discussions within the Ogbomoso North political circle, as observers await his next political move.
society
Harmony Garden Boss, Mr Ibile Celebrates Mogaji Wole Arisekola, Hails Legacy of Leadership and Excellence
Harmony Garden Boss, Mr Ibile Celebrates Mogaji Wole Arisekola, Hails Legacy of Leadership and Excellence
Renowned real estate entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Harmony Garden & Estate Development Limited, Hon. Dr. Saheed Audullahi Mosadoluwa aka Mr Ibile, has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman, Mogaji Wole Arisekola, in a heartfelt birthday message that has drawn admiration across social circles.
In a message shared on his official platform, Dr. Saheed described the celebrant as “a remarkable man, a pillar of strength, wisdom, and legacy,” highlighting his enduring influence on family, community, and leadership circles. The tribute, written on behalf of himself and his children, praised Arisekola’s life as one that continues to inspire greatness and unwavering commitment to service.
“Iba Eni for Agba Imole,” he wrote, emphasizing deep respect and reverence for the celebrant’s impactful life. According to him, Arisekola’s voice remains respected, while his legacy is firmly rooted in honor and excellence, qualities that have defined his journey over the years.
Offering prayers for continued good health, long life, and greater accomplishments, Mosadoluwa concluded by wishing the elder statesman a peaceful and joyful new year, filled with divine blessings. The message has since resonated with admirers, further reinforcing the strong bond between the two figures and celebrating a legacy of influence and integrity.
celebrity radar - gossips
Accolades to Empress Genevieve Wining as she Celebrate birthday in Grand style
Accolades to Empress Genevieve Wining as she Celebrate birthday in Grand style
Emmanuel Clement
Vilnius, Lithuania – The Grand Hotel Vilnius will host a grand birthday celebration in honor of Her Majesty The Empress Genevieve Wining of the United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) on April 4th, 2026.
The four-day event promises to be an extravagant affair, marking the special birthday of Empress Genevieve Wining. The celebration will take place at the prestigious Grand Hotel Vilnius, Lithuania, renowned for its luxurious ambiance and exceptional service.
According to the event flyer, the birthday celebration will be a spectacular occasion, fitting for an empress. Guests can expect an elegant setting adorned with golden accents, sparkling champagne, and festive decorations, creating a regal atmosphere befitting the occasion.
The Empress Genevieve Wining of UKA is expected to grace the event, which will include various festivities and celebrations in her honor. The occasion aims to bring together dignitaries, followers, and guests to commemorate the empress’s birthday with grandeur and joy.
For media inquiries, accreditation, or further information about the birthday celebration of The Empress Genevieve Wining of UKA, please contact the event organizers.
Courtesy of His Excellency Emperor Prof. Solomon Wining. UKA
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