By Staff Reporter

A patient at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Akamili, Nnewi, Mr. Kamsoluchukwu Simon Oguka, has raised concerns over what he described as the deplorable state of toilet facilities in the hospital’s Male Surgical Ward, urging the hospital management to take immediate steps to improve sanitation.

Oguka, who underwent surgery on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, praised the professionalism and dedication of the medical team that attended to him but expressed disappointment over the unhygienic condition of the ward’s toilet facilities.

According to him, he regained full consciousness around 1:15 a.m. on Wednesday after a surgical procedure that lasted from about 12 noon until shortly after 3 p.m. When he attempted to use the restroom, he said he was left shocked by what he found.

“First of all, I want to appreciate the specialist who successfully carried out my surgery and the doctors and nurses, especially the male nurses, who have been exceptional in caring for patients. They are doing a fantastic job,” Oguka said.

“However, the management of this hospital is not doing well when it comes to maintaining the toilet facilities. I came here to recover from surgery, but the state of the toilets almost made me sick again.”

Oguka questioned how recovering patients, many of whom are in fragile health, were expected to use facilities in such poor condition.

“How can patients comfortably use a place like this? I came to the hospital to get better, not to expose myself to another health risk.”

He expressed surprise that the Akamili site, one of the newer facilities of the teaching hospital, had deteriorated to such a level.

“This is a relatively new site compared to the old teaching hospital in Nnewi, yet the facilities are already in this condition. The management should do better.”

The patient also alleged that the sanitation problem extends beyond the Male Surgical Ward, claiming that several other wards face similar or even worse conditions. While calling on the hospital authorities to strengthen maintenance, he also urged patients and visitors to use public facilities responsibly.

“Patients themselves are also part of the problem. Everyone must learn to use public facilities responsibly. But management has a greater responsibility to ensure these toilets are properly maintained and cleaned regularly.”

Describing the toilets as unfit for use, Oguka said he struggled to use them.

“As a man, I found it difficult to use the toilet. I can only imagine how uncomfortable it must be for female patients.”

He appealed to the hospital management and the Anambra State Government to prioritise hygiene across all public healthcare facilities, stressing that cleanliness is fundamental to quality healthcare delivery.

“The people of Anambra State deserve clean, safe and functional hospitals. Every part of a healthcare facility, including the mortuary, should meet acceptable standards of hygiene because everyone deserves dignity.”

Oguka added that he looked forward to being discharged as soon as possible.

“Please discharge me today. I came here to treat an illness, not to go home with another one.”

His concerns have renewed calls for improved sanitation, regular maintenance and stricter hygiene standards in public hospitals to protect patients, healthcare workers and visitors.