Premature baby found dead outside University hostel in Port Harcourt
Pandemonium erupted at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, when the lifeless body of a premature baby was discovered in front of a female hostel on campus.
The distressing incident, which occurred last Saturday morning, left students in shock as the male infant, estimated to be between six and seven months old, lay covered in cloth.
According to eyewitnesses who spoke to reporters, the unidentified person responsible for abandoning the baby hastily dropped him in front of the Rumulumeni campus of the university, located in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state.
The tragic discovery, made in the early hours of the morning, raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the baby’s birth and abandonment.
Speculation swirled among students, with some suggesting that the mother of the deceased child might be a student herself, given the proximity of the incident to the hostel. One student, who preferred to remain anonymous, recounted waking up to the commotion and witnessing the grim scene of the infant covered in blood and placenta.
Further reports from witnesses hinted at the possibility of economic hardship or societal stigma as motivating factors behind the abandonment. Concerns were raised about the potential consequences of unwed pregnancies and familial rejection, leading to desperate actions like child abandonment.
Dr. Ngozi Okiridu, the university spokesperson, confirmed the distressing situation but emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the identity of the baby’s mother. While the matter had been reported to the police for investigation, clarity on the involvement of a student remained elusive.
In response, Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the state police command, acknowledged awareness of the incident circulating on social media but indicated the need for confirmation from the Divisional Police Officer.
As of the time of reporting, further updates on the investigation were pending.
The tragic discovery of the premature baby underscores broader societal challenges surrounding reproductive health, economic hardship, and social support systems, prompting calls for increased awareness and intervention to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
