There was a dramatic scene at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, Kogi State, on Friday as a man identified as Adamu Muhammed Tenimu, reportedly fainted after receiving the news that his wife had delivered a set of triplets.
The incident occurred shortly after the delivery.
Eyewitnesses said the man, upon hearing that his wife had given birth to three babies, all girls, was overwhelmed by emotion and slumped.
Hospital officials and sympathisers quickly came to his aid and successfully revived him.
The new mother and her triplets were said to be in stable condition.
Speaking to journalists shortly after regaining consciousness, Muhammed, a job seeker, expressed a mixture of joy and sadness, citing his inability to meet the financial responsibilities that now accompany the birth.
“I thank God for this miracle, but I am confused and sad. I didn’t know we were expecting triplets. Right now, we don’t even have the means and financial capacity to pay the hospital bills, let alone care for three babies at once,” he said, while shedding tears profusely.
“This blessing is huge, but so is the burden. I don’t even have money to buy diapers or baby food. I don’t know where to start,” he lamented.
Onlookers who confirmed the situation told our correspondent that while the birth was successful, the family was in urgent need of medical supplies, nutrition, and financial aid to support the care of the newborns.
“The babies are healthy, but this family needs help. We are calling on the government, NGOs, religious groups, and well-meaning Nigerians to support them,” a family member said.
Friends and well-wishers of the family have also begun a mobilisation drive, calling on citizens to assist in whatever capacity they can.
“We urge the Kogi State Government and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to intervene.
“The father is a law-abiding, hardworking man, and this situation deserves attention,” said Mr. Nuhu Alhassan, a colleague.
Calls have also gone out to philanthropic organisations and individuals to donate baby essentials, food supplies, and funds for hospital expenses.
“The joy of childbirth should not be overshadowed by fear of survival. We must stand together as a people and support this family,” Sikiru Olamide added.
The triplets, born weighing 1.8kg, 2.0kg, and 2.3kg, respectively, have been placed under observation at the hospital’s neonatal unit and are responding well.
The PUNCH
