By joshua 
BNC, BSM Seek Clarification Over Alleged Lab Fee Hike At UBTH
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin city
The Benin National Congress (BNC) and the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) have called on the management of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) to clarify reports of alleged increases in laboratory fees at the institution.
In a joint press statement issued in Benin City and signed by Elder Comrade Curtis Eghosa Ugbo for the Benin Solidarity Movement and Comrade Collins Osaghae for the Benin National Congress, the groups urged the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UBTH to address growing public concern over what they described as rumours of fee adjustments, particularly at a time of economic hardship.
The organisations said UBTH, as a major referral hospital serving Edo State and neighbouring regions, plays a critical role in the lives of ordinary citizens. According to them, any change in service charges, especially for essential laboratory investigations, is bound to attract attention and concern.
The BNC and BSM described the current leadership of the hospital as an opportunity to strengthen service delivery and build public trust. They said the period should be marked by “progress, compassion and accountability.”
“We respectfully draw the attention of the Chief Medical Director to recent public concerns regarding alleged laboratory fee increases within the hospital,”
“The Benin National Congress (BNC) and Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) in solidarity with the people of Edo State, particularly Edo South, wishes to respectfully draw the attention of the Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) to recent public concerns regarding alleged laboratory fee increases within the hospital.
“As a foremost referral institution serving Edo State and beyond, UBTH occupies a vital place in the lives of ordinary citizens. Any adjustment in service charges, especially at a time of economic strain, naturally generates public interest and concern.
“We therefore call on the Chief Medical Director to provide clear information on the situation. Transparency at this moment will help dispel rumours, protect the reputation of the institution, and reassure the public that patient welfare remains the top priority.
“Your appointment is seen by many as an opportunity to strengthen service delivery and uphold the trust placed in UBTH by the people of Edo State and Nigeria at large. It is important that this period marks progress, compassion, and
The groups stressed that transparency would help dispel rumours and protect the hospital’s reputation. They noted that clear communication from management would reassure the public that patient welfare remains a priority.
The BNC and BSM described the current leadership of the hospital as an opportunity to strengthen service delivery and build public trust. They said the period should be marked by “progress, compassion and accountability.”
While calling for far reaching reforms, the groups maintained that healthcare should not be treated as a luxury, especially for families in Edo South who struggle daily to afford medical services and made recommendations on how to reduce cost of medical services in the hospital, restore confidence and douse tension
“Healthcare is not a luxury. For many families in Edo South, it is a daily struggle to afford basic medical services. While hospitals face operational costs, every effort should be made to ensure that essential laboratory investigations and critical services remain affordable, and where possible, subsidized for vulnerable groups.
“The Benin National Congress and Benin Solidarity Movement believe that public confidence can be strengthened through the following measures: Immediate Public Clarification.Issue an official statement addressing the rumours of fee increments, clearly outlining what has changed and why.
“Stakeholder Engagement. Convene a meeting with community leaders, civil society groups, and health advocates to explain hospital policies and receive feedback.
“Cost Review and Relief Measures. Establish an internal review committee to assess laboratory pricing, with a mandate to recommend reductions or subsidy mechanisms for low-income patients.
“Transparency Framework. Publish updated service charges on official hospital platforms and notice boards to prevent misinformation. Introduce or expand social welfare schemes, indigent patient funds, and partnerships that can offset costs for the most vulnerable.
“These steps will not only calm public anxiety but will also position the CMD as a reform-minded leader committed to fairness and service.
“Public appointments come with expectations. The people of Edo State look forward to leadership that brings relief, not additional burden. This moment presents an opportunity to demonstrate responsiveness and empathy.
“The Benin National Congress and Benin Solidarity Movement remain committed to constructive engagement. Our intention is not confrontation, but collaboration in the interest of the people.
“We trust that under your leadership, UBTH will continue to uphold its reputation as a center of excellence, while ensuring that access to healthcare remains within reach for all.
“While hospitals face operational costs, every effort should be made to ensure that essential laboratory investigations and critical services remain affordable, and where possible, subsidised for vulnerable groups,” the statement said.