Rivers State Government Intervenes After Hospital Detains Baby and Grandmother for One Year Over Unpaid Bills

Port Harcourt, Nigeria — The Rivers State Government has intervened in a disturbing case involving a private hospital that allegedly detained a baby and her grandmother for one year over unpaid medical bills following the death of the child’s mother during childbirth.

According to reports, the hospital withheld the infant and grandmother after the family failed to settle outstanding charges incurred during delivery. The mother reportedly died shortly after giving birth, leaving the family unable to pay the hospital’s fees.

Public outrage grew after news of the detention surfaced on social media, prompting swift action from the Rivers State Ministry of Health and social welfare officials.

A government delegation visited the hospital to secure the release of the baby and her grandmother, describing the incident as “inhumane and unacceptable.” Officials condemned the hospital’s conduct and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all residents, especially vulnerable individuals.

The baby and her grandmother have since been released and are now in the care of state authorities, pending further investigation.