The Edo State Government’s pledge of N2.5 billion to strengthen facilities at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has ignited a fierce political row between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Governor Monday Okpebholo announced the intervention during a courtesy visit by UBTH’s new Chief Medical Director, Prof. Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, describing it as a strategic step to improve healthcare delivery in the state.
However, the PDP swiftly condemned the decision, calling it “reckless” and a ploy to score political points ahead of the 2027 elections. The party argued that the money should have been channelled towards reviving state-owned hospitals, which it claims are in disrepair.
The APC fired back, accusing the PDP of “propaganda over truth” and insisting that UBTH serves as a critical referral hospital for thousands of Edo residents, making a “direct contribution to saving lives.”
The exchange reflects broader concerns about the state of healthcare in Edo, and how political rivalry continues to shape public policy. For now, Edo residents are left to wonder: is this a bold step toward improved healthcare or another political battleground?
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