LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Danjuma Uhogbe Francis has endured countless challenges in his life, but one thing remains constant, his dedication and hard work.
But behind his determined spirit lies a deeply troubling story of failing health and discrimination.
In this compelling report, Danjuma shares his experiences with Voiceofnaija.ng, shedding light on the obstacles he faces and the limited support he receives from his workplace.
Despite his numerous efforts to obtain assistance, both financially and medically, Danjuma’s pleas for help have largely fallen on deaf ears.
Now, he turns to the management of Ojokoro LG, the Lagos State government, and compassionate Nigerians for the support he so desperately needs.
This is a plea for assistance, a plea to save a leg, and ultimately, a plea to restore the faith of a dedicated civil servant who has given so much to his community
READ ALSO: Stop Ethnic Discrimination; Igbos, Yorubas, Others Are One Family – Tinubu
His Story
In 1998, Danjuma had no house, no job, and was facing various personal problems.
However, his life took a positive turn when he crossed paths with a kind-hearted man named Alhaji Morufdeen Adeola Adefolabi, the first chairman of Ifako Ijaiye who emerged chairman after Danjuma campaigned for him and he won the election that put him in office.
Danjuma desperately needed money and a place to live, as he was sleeping on the balcony of his brother’s house.
Adefolabi saw potential in Danjuma and promised to assist him financially but from 1998 to 1999 all Danjuma got was little financial support from Adefolabi.
He was also unwell and didn’t fail to inform Adefolabi about his failing health and need for support so in 1999 Adefolabi employed him in the local government as Works Attendant.
Unfortunately, Danjuma’s health began to deteriorate over the years. In 2013, he started experiencing excruciating leg pain, and in 2023, his condition worsened.
His leg would often swell, and he frequently dealt with chest pains.
Despite repeatedly seeking help from the local government authorities where he works, he was often ignored or received insufficient assistance.
“The doctor treating me initially tried his best, but the expenses exceeded the coverage provided by my health insurance so he would write the tests out for me to go and do it elsewhere,” he said.
Discrimination
Adding to his challenges, Danjuma faced discrimination and mistreatment from some of his colleagues. As someone from Cross River, not belonging to the Yoruba ethnic group, he often felt like an outsider.
“My promotion was delayed for nearly two decades, and I constantly encountered indifference when seeking help for my health issues.
“I visited the general hospital in Ikeja because I needed emergency medical attention. The doctors recommended surgery that would cost N250,000 so I approached the local government again.
” Before now, when I write that I need N100,000 they would give me only N10,000 or N15,000 but I wrote again because the Human Resources personnel told me to write like others,” he added.
Despite his efforts to navigate the bureaucratic process, the funds he received from the local government were insufficient to cover even the necessary medical tests.
He said even as the HR manager ordered one of his secretaries to assist with the processing, he still met a bottle neck.
“At the end of the day even my oga, the engineer signed it. I heard that the local government chairman, Tijani Idowu approved N150,000 but the HOD Medical in the local government; a doctor who saw that I am not Yoruba said it is a minor injury and approved 50,000 even after seeing all my medical report.
“50,000 can’t even pay for the test which is N75,000 for the left and 65,000 for the right leg.
READ ALSO: CAPPA Expresses Disappointment Over Lagos Water Corporation’s Handling of Worker Entitlements
“Everyone is saying its unfair. I have explained to my boss that the money can’t do anything for me.
“Since I can’t afford the medical bills and someone mentioned that they may cut off the leg, I got scared and decided to go natural so I was directed to a woman in Akungba, Ondo State.
“I have been there twice but I can’t keep up because I have exhausted all I have. Transportation to Akungba is N14,000 then I will have to stay there and pay for accommodation and feeding.
“Sometimes I stay there for as much as 5 days. It is very sad because I am a strong politician. I have gone round to all my bosses but I couldn’t raise the money but now that the local government elections are here, they have started approaching me because they know that I am a hard worker,” he said.
Danjuma said he would like the management of Ojokoro LG as well as the Lagos State government and well meaning Nigerians to come to his aid.
“I don’t want to lose my leg. Please come to my aid,” he said.