A couple in Edo State alleges their baby contracted HIV from unsafe blood transfusion at a private hospital in Benin. Both parents tested negative.
An Edo couple, Mr. and Mrs. Praise Mumbor, have accused a private hospital in Benin City of medical negligence after their 19-month-old son, Jeremiah, tested positive for HIV following two blood transfusions.
The child was first admitted to Safe Bliss Medical Centre on February 6, 2025, for high fever and low blood levels. “The doctor said my baby blood was very low… I paid N40,000 for blood,” the father said.
Following a second transfusion in May, Jeremiah’s health declined, prompting a referral to Edo Specialist Hospital. “They collected our blood samples… and we were told our baby is HIV-positive,” he said, adding both parents tested HIV-negative.
A doctor at Edo Specialist Hospital, who requested anonymity, confirmed: “Results confirmed they are HIV-negative. So, the possible explanation is the transfused blood.”
Dr. Adesotu Humphrey of Safe Bliss Medical Centre claimed due protocols were followed and said an internal investigation is ongoing.
The couple has petitioned Edo’s Attorney General, demanding justice.