The Oyo State Government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to relatives and next of kin of unclaimed corpses deposited in public hospital mortuaries across the state to come forward for identification and claim. The notice was contained in a statement signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi.
According to the Commissioner, the number of unclaimed corpses in mortuaries within public health facilities has increased significantly over time. The situation has led to severe congestion in the affected mortuaries, making it difficult for the facilities to function efficiently.
Dr. Ajetunmobi explained that the corpses were brought in by the Nigeria Police Force, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and other relevant agencies following accidents, deaths, and other incidents. Many of these bodies have remained unclaimed for long periods despite public appeals.
To address the congestion and maintain public health standards, the state government has resolved to decongest the mortuaries. The Commissioner stated that the efficient operation of health facilities requires adequate space and proper management of morgue facilities.
The government therefore directed that relatives or concerned persons with missing family members should visit the relevant public hospital mortuaries within seven days from the date of the publication. This is to enable identification and possible claim of the corpses.
Dr. Ajetunmobi noted that arrangements have been finalized for the conduct of a mass burial for all corpses that remain unclaimed after the expiration of the seven-day notice. The mass burial is intended to free up space and ensure sanitary conditions in the mortuaries.
She reiterated that the Oyo State Government remains committed to maintaining acceptable public health standards and ensuring effective management of healthcare facilities. Proper mortuary management, she said, is critical to preventing health hazards and ensuring dignity for the dead.
The Commissioner urged the public to take advantage of the seven-day window to identify and claim their relatives. Failure to do so, she warned, will result in the affected bodies being included in the planned mass burial exercise by the government.
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