The Edo State Government has successfully reunited a 53-year-old Nigerian man, Peter Guobadia, with his family after he was deported from the United States and found wandering in severe mental distress in Benin City. The intervention came after officials rescued him along Airport Road and placed him under protective care at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uselu, for specialist treatment.
Swift Government Response to Deportee Crisis
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, stated that the government acted promptly upon learning of Guobadia's condition. He was referred to the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Uselu, where he is currently receiving medical and psychiatric care. The commissioner emphasized the ministry's commitment to protecting vulnerable residents and ensuring they receive rehabilitation, recovery support, and safe return to their communities.
Coordinated Rescue and Family Tracing
Senior Social Welfare Officer Esther Eruanga explained that officials launched a rescue operation after media reports highlighted Guobadia's condition. Initial assessments revealed serious mental health challenges, necessitating immediate specialist intervention. Sustained tracing efforts by the ministry and other stakeholders eventually located Guobadia's relatives, leading to his reunion with family members after weeks of coordinated work.
Eruanga disclosed that post-rehabilitation monitoring will continue to support his recovery and ensure access to welfare services after leaving the hospital. Another Social Welfare Officer, Ewere Samuel, noted that the case underscores the importance of coordinated responses for vulnerable individuals often lacking adequate family support. He called for greater public awareness on mental health issues and stronger community support systems to reduce stigma and improve rehabilitation outcomes.
Family Expresses Gratitude
Guobadia's uncle, Charles Imarhiagbe, expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government and medical personnel for their prompt response. He praised the rehabilitation team for the professional care provided to his nephew and thanked officials for reconnecting him with his family after his rescue from the streets of Benin City.
The Edo State Government reiterated its commitment to strengthening rehabilitation, mental health support, and reintegration programmes for vulnerable persons across the state. This case highlights the challenges faced by deported Nigerians and the need for robust support systems to address mental health and social reintegration.
