A family in Benin City, Edo State, is demanding justice after their baby, Jeremiah, who was allegedly infected with HIV through a blood transfusion at Safe Bliss Medical Centre.
According to the father, Mr. Mumbor, both he and his wife Elisa tested HIV-negative. Their baby only tested positive after receiving transfused blood on February 6, 2025, when doctors said his blood level was dangerously low.
Mr. Mumbor offered to donate his own blood but was told the lab technician was unavailable. The hospital instead charged ₦40,000 for blood from a bank. After two units were given, the child recovered.
Months later, following a second transfusion, Jeremiah’s condition worsened. Referred to Edo Specialist Hospital, the boy tested positive for HIV. Additional tests confirmed the result, while his parents remained negative.
Doctors said the infection likely came from the transfusion.
“My son is not even two years old, and now he will live with this forever. I just want justice,” Mr. Mumbor said.
The family reported the case to the Edo State Ministry of Justice. After initial reluctance, the hospital owner appeared with lawyers. Authorities later sealed the hospital for operating without a license but eventually told the family to pursue legal action independently.
Police have launched an investigation. Meanwhile, human rights activist Comrade Glory Omonigho urged government bodies to act, saying,
“This is not just a personal issue; this is a public health crisis.”
The case highlights the urgent need for proper hospital oversight and safe blood practices. The public now waits to see whether justice will be served for baby Jeremiah.
