Urgent Call For Help From Ogun’s Leprosy Community After Robbers Exploit Their Plight

Urgent Call For Help From Ogun’s Leprosy Community After Robbers Exploit Their Plight....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The residents of the Iberekodo Lepers’ Colony in Abeokuta, Ogun State, are enduring a grim struggle for survival, isolated by the debilitating effects of leprosy and societal stigma. With only a meager N10,000 monthly stipend from the government, their existence is fraught with challenges, both physical and emotional. Olufemi Adediran highlights their daily battle against poverty and neglect……CONTINUE READING 

Home to 28 individuals, the colony faces severe hardships, including insecurity, land encroachment, and insufficient medical care. Many residents, primarily elderly and frail, have been socially ostracized, living in crumbling shelters that lack basic amenities and security.

“Surviving here is incredibly tough; we feel almost helpless,” says Sunday Olaitan, a resident for 19 years. He recounts his journey after being diagnosed with leprosy as a teenager, leading to a life of loss and isolation. Like Olaitan, others in the colony share similar stories of abandonment, yet they form a close-knit community, supporting one another through their shared struggles.

Health care is another critical issue, with many suffering from additional ailments like diabetes and malaria, exacerbated by inadequate medical facilities. Jimoh Ahmed, chairman of the Integrated Dignity Economic Advancement group, laments the lack of support, as international medical aid has dwindled, leaving many without even basic medications.

In addition to health challenges, residents face rising insecurity. Robbers frequently invade the colony, preying on its vulnerable population. “We live in constant fear,” shares 74-year-old John Ojoawo, highlighting their inability to defend themselves or call for help.

As encroachers take over their land, the colony’s primary income source—farming—has been severely compromised. “We rely on our monthly stipend, but it barely lasts a week,” Ojoawo explains, emphasizing the dire need for government intervention.

Despite these hardships, residents maintain their dignity, relying on charitable donations while avoiding alms begging, which is strictly prohibited within the colony. Ahmed expresses hope for increased support, having sent numerous letters to the government requesting a stipend increase.

In response to these challenges, the Ogun State government is developing plans to reintegrate some younger residents back into society to foster self-sustainability. Health Commissioner Dr. Tomi Coker acknowledges the community’s plight and has proposed a review of their monthly allowance.

While the residents continue to fight for their rights and dignity, their future remains uncertain, and their plea for assistance echoes a call for compassion and action from the broader society.

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