Gunmen murder physiotherapist at UBTH, spark protests

DDM News

A physiotherapist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), known simply as Alex, was tragically killed last Friday by gunmen at the hospital.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that Alex, a man in his twenties, was reportedly shot to death while on duty at the hospital, sparking fear and panic among both patients and medical staff.

Witnesses said that during the attack, hospital workers and patients scrambled to seek safety as the assailants opened fire.

The gunmen stormed the hospital premises, and in the chaos, Alex was fatally shot.

Although full details surrounding the motive for the attack remain unclear, the senseless killing of a health professional has left many questioning the safety of workers in public institutions.

In response to the tragic loss, staff members from the Physiotherapy Department at UBTH organized a peaceful protest.

The protest, which gained significant traction on social media through a viral video, saw several staff members holding up placards to express their outrage over the heinous crime.

The placards bore messages of justice for their slain colleague and calls for greater security within the hospital.

The protest was peaceful but marked by deep sorrow and frustration over the senseless act of violence.

A spokesperson for the hospital, Joshua Uwaila, confirmed the incident in a statement to the press.

He stated that the hospital management had immediately reported the killing to law enforcement authorities.

Uwaila assured the public that the hospital was cooperating with security agencies, who are now conducting an investigation into the matter.

The authorities are expected to provide updates on the progress of their investigation, although, as of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.

This tragedy has underscored the growing concern over the safety of workers and residents in the state.

The increasing frequency of violent incidents, including the recent killing of healthcare workers, has raised alarm among citizens.

Many are now calling for stronger security measures in public institutions, particularly hospitals, which are supposed to be places of refuge and healing.

The killing has not only impacted the immediate hospital community but has also drawn broader attention to the issue of insecurity in the region.

As this case continues to unfold, many are hoping that swift justice will prevail, bringing those responsible for the crime to account.

The protest at UBTH reflects a deeper concern over the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in volatile environments, where the risk to their lives can be all too real.

The tragic event has also reignited conversations on the need for authorities to address the underlying causes of violence in the state.

It is becoming increasingly evident that security measures at public institutions, especially healthcare facilities, are insufficient to protect the lives of workers and patients.

There is now a heightened call for increased surveillance, security personnel, and better emergency protocols within hospitals across the state.

The murder of Alex has served as a stark reminder of the dangers healthcare workers face on a daily basis, often while performing their duties in service to the public.

As the investigation into his death continues, the UBTH community and the public at large remain united in their demand for justice and improved security.

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