In a curious twist of fate, several Nigerian politicians have recently met their end in London hospitals, a trend that raises eyebrows and questions about the state of healthcare back home. The recent death of Willie Obiano, the former governor of Anambra State, while seeking treatment abroad, has reignited discussions about why so many politicians choose to rely on foreign medical facilities even after serving in a country plagued by poor healthcare infrastructure.

In the wake of Obiano’s death, one cannot ignore the eerie similarity with the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who also sought medical care abroad, predominantly in London. Both leaders, despite their extensive resources and previous positions of power, appeared to prefer foreign medical care over Nigeria’s own hospitals. This trend isn’t just a personal choice; it reflects broader societal neglect of the health sector.

Many Nigerians view this pattern as emblematic of a broader disdain among the elite for the very systems they govern. Nigerian politicians frequently travel abroad for medical care, showcasing a lack of faith in local hospitals, which are often underfunded, understaffed, and ill-equipped to provide adequate treatment.

The irony is stark: politicians who could advocate for improvements in the health system choose to flee their own country in times of need. This decision sends a potent message about their priorities. It highlights a harsh reality for ordinary Nigerians who rely on an overburdened healthcare system. For the average citizen, seeking medical attention can often feel like a gamble—a stark contrast to the privileged access enjoyed by the elite.

Obiano’s death adds to a growing list of Nigerian political figures who have succumbed to illness in foreign lands. The outpouring of grief and tributes that followed his passing often included stark reminders of the failing healthcare system back home, unable to provide for its leaders, let alone its citizens.

As the nation mourns another fallen leader who turned his back on local healthcare, the imperative for reform becomes clearer. If politicians continually avoid Nigerian hospitals, what hope is there for the system to improve? This cycle must be broken, and the onus lies with those in power to invest in and revitalize the healthcare sector.

The deaths of Willie Obiano and others in London hospitals are more than just personal tragedies; they serve as a mirror reflecting the failures of Nigeria’s healthcare system. As we honor their legacies, it is crucial to remember that true leadership involves fostering a robust healthcare system for all citizens, not just for a select few who can afford to travel abroad for treatment. The time has come for Nigerian politicians to either commit to bolstering the local healthcare system or to be ready for the criticisms that come with their choices.