42-Year-Old Man Vanishes from Lagos Hospital After Alcoholism Treatment Plan
A 42-year-old man has gone missing after his family took him to the General Hospital in Gbagada, Lagos, sparking urgent concern and a public appeal for assistance. Kehinde Albert was last seen on February 27 at the hospital, where he had undergone medical examinations in preparation for enrolling in a rehabilitation program for alcoholism.
Family Details Disturbing Circumstances of Disappearance
Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, March 10, his elder brother, Olatunde Albert, revealed that Kehinde had struggled with alcohol addiction for several years. On February 26, Olatunde took Kehinde and his twin brother to the hospital for preliminary medical tests required before rehabilitation.
"On Thursday, February 26, I took him to the hospital with his twin brother because we wanted to enrol him in a rehabilitation programme for his alcoholism. We were told to carry out some medical tests on him," Olatunde explained.
He added that Kehinde had not been feeling well generally, and the situation worsened after the family lost their mother last year. "Our mother used to take care of them, but after her death, there was no one to restrain him and he returned to drinking. So when we went to the rehabilitation centre, we were advised to run some tests."
Hospital Stay and Conflicting Accounts of Events
According to Olatunde, Kehinde suddenly developed seizures and convulsions while at the hospital and was immediately admitted for treatment. After stabilizing, Olatunde left the following day to buy prescribed medication, leaving Kehinde in the care of his twin brother. However, Olatunde became concerned after seeing the twin brother outside the hospital that night.
"When I asked why he left Kehinde at the hospital, he told me the hospital staff chased them away," Olatunde said.
In contrast, hospital officials provided a different account. They stated that Kehinde and his twin brother had attempted to leave the facility several times. According to the hospital, Kehinde later slipped out of the premises while staff were reviewing their documents.
Hospital's Response and Ongoing Search Efforts
When contacted, the Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. Olusegun Babafemi, clarified that Kehinde had initially visited for tests but nearly collapsed at the laboratory and was rushed to the emergency unit, where he was stabilized. Babafemi said the patient's twin brother later insisted on leaving despite medical advice that further examinations by a cardiologist and psychiatrist were needed.
"Once a patient is discharged, the hospital is no longer responsible for the individual unless the person is admitted to the ward," Babafemi explained, noting that the hospital had informed them they could leave after completing a discharge process, which they did.
He added that the hospital had circulated Kehinde's photograph internally and advised the family to search places he frequented, suggesting he might have gone somewhere familiar.
Family's Desperate Plea for Public Assistance
Since Kehinde's disappearance, the family has been searching extensively without success. Olatunde expressed deep distress, stating, "We have been looking for him everywhere since that day. We have already lost our mother, and we are pleading with the public to help us find him."
The case highlights the challenges families face in managing addiction and mental health issues, compounded by bureaucratic and communication gaps in healthcare settings. Authorities and the community are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings to assist in locating Kehinde Albert.
