FOSAD calls on Gov. Peter Mbah to reinstate student nurse who exposed Uwani health centre decay

Chinedum Ukaegbu

Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) has expressed deep concern over the indefinite suspension of Joy Ezeugwu, a student nurse at Ezzy College of Nursing, Enugu, following her viral video exposing deplorable conditions at Uwani Health Centre, Enugu.

In her widely circulated video, Miss Ezeugwu highlighted severe deficiencies at the facility, including the absence of electricity, running water, and oxygen equipment, necessities that are critical for the safe and effective delivery of healthcare services.

According to the FOSAD’s president, Dr. Stephen Nwala, and Secretary-General, Dr. Uzor Ngoladi, the Enugu State Government should act decisively, demonstrating leadership that prioritizes truth, justice, and the well-being of its people.

Her revelations have sparked public outrage and renewed debates over the state of healthcare infrastructure in Enugu State.

Rather than being commended for her professional conscience and civic responsibility, Ezeugwu’s actions were met with punitive measures.

The indefinite suspension has drawn criticism from FOSAD, which sees it as indicative of institutional intolerance for transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s healthcare and educational sectors.

“Silencing individuals who expose systemic failures only deepens the crisis and undermines efforts toward reform,” FOSAD stated in its press release.

“Healthcare professionals, including students, must be encouraged, not punished, for upholding ethical standards and advocating for patient welfare.”

FOSAD has called on Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to intervene immediately by reinstating Joy Ezeugwu without prejudice, launching a comprehensive investigation into the state of Uwani Health Centre, and taking urgent steps to remedy the infrastructural deficiencies.

The organization also urged the establishment of protections for whistleblowers within healthcare and educational institutions to promote transparency and accountability.

“This situation is not merely about one student,” FOSAD emphasized. “It reflects a broader systemic challenge. The health and lives of citizens depend on functional healthcare institutions. Ignoring such revelations or punishing those who bring them to light is both counterproductive and dangerous.”