Tragic Maternal Death in Cross River Community Highlights Healthcare Crisis
A devastating incident has occurred in Cross River State, where a woman lost her life due to complications after childbirth, underscoring the critical lack of medical infrastructure in rural areas. Mrs Achue Lovelyn Makia tragically died from postpartum hemorrhage following the home birth of twins in Balegete community, Obanliku Local Government Area.
Fatal Journey for Medical Help
The community lacks proper healthcare facilities, forcing residents to seek medical attention elsewhere. Mrs Makia began bleeding excessively after delivering her twins at home and was being transported to another community for emergency care when she succumbed to her condition. This heartbreaking event occurred on Monday, January 26, highlighting the dire consequences of inadequate maternal healthcare services in remote regions.
Political Response and Immediate Actions
Honorable Peter Akpanke, the federal representative for Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra constituency, has responded to the tragedy with both immediate relief measures and long-term advocacy. In an official statement, he expressed deep sorrow over the incident and outlined concrete steps being taken to address the situation.
Immediate interventions include:
- Arranging transfer of the surviving twins to Sacred Heart Hospital in Obudu for proper medical care
- Approving financial support of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000) for the bereaved family
- Deploying a team led by his Personal Assistant to coordinate emergency assistance
Long-Term Healthcare Advocacy
Beyond the immediate crisis response, Honorable Akpanke has initiated discussions with healthcare authorities to prevent future tragedies. He has contacted Dr. Vivian Otu, Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, to advocate for sustainable healthcare solutions in underserved communities.
The representative emphasized the urgent need for establishing proper healthcare centers in distant communities like Balegete, noting that such facilities could save lives during maternal emergencies. His appeal extends to all underserved areas across the federal constituency, where similar healthcare gaps exist.
Broader Implications for Rural Healthcare
This tragic incident brings into sharp focus the persistent challenges facing Nigeria's rural healthcare system, particularly regarding maternal health services. Postpartum hemorrhage remains a leading cause of maternal mortality nationwide, with remote communities bearing the heaviest burden due to limited access to emergency obstetric care.
The community's mourning is tempered by concern for the newborn twins, who now require extensive support and medical attention. As development discussions continue, this case serves as a stark reminder of the human cost when basic healthcare infrastructure is absent from communities that need it most.
