The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) has dismissed allegations in a viral video concerning its services, defending the availability of medical equipment while acknowledging challenges relating to electricity supply and staff shortages.
In a press release dated October 29, 2026, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Kem Daniel-Elebiga, and Head of the SERVICOM Unit, Mr. Efere Azubalu, said the Accident and Emergency Department had no record identifying the patient featured in the video. The management also dismissed claims that a sphygmomanometer, used to measure blood pressure, was unavailable, insisting that decisions on medical procedures rested with qualified physicians.
On electricity supply, the hospital said power availability had improved following efforts by its Chief Medical Director, Professor Chituru Godwill Orluwene, to secure its inclusion in the Federal Government’s Energising Education Off-Grid Solar Project at the University of Port Harcourt. However, it acknowledged that weather-related fluctuations and rehabilitation works sometimes caused temporary power interruptions, with critical areas given priority before full supply was restored.
The management also acknowledged manpower shortages, noting that the Federal Government was working to recruit more health workers. It explained that recruitment required institutional verification and compliance with established procedures, adding that the hospital was following due process to address its staffing gaps.
Reaffirming its commitment to healthcare delivery, training and research, UPTH urged journalists, partners and members of the public to verify information and engage the management whenever they had concerns. The hospital assured the public of its readiness to respond to inquiries and its commitment to providing professional and quality healthcare services.
