Abuja: The family of Madam Evbu Eguasa has expressed gratitude to the Edo Government for its intervention in her rehabilitation, following her struggle with mental health challenges for approximately 16 years.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the commendation was made on Tuesday during a visit to the Edo Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in Benin, where the family expressed their appreciation for the government’s support. Mr. Lugard Eguasa, speaking on behalf of the family, highlighted the financial constraints and other challenges that had previously hindered their efforts to secure treatment for his sister.
He extended thanks to Gov. Monday Okpebholo and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, for their roles in facilitating the intervention that has significantly improved Madam Eguasa’s condition. He explained that she had lived in Italy for several years before returning to Nigeria under difficult circumstances and that her mental health condition began about 16 years ago after experiencing a series of traumatic events, including separation from her only daughter.
Mr. Eguasa mentioned that the family had initially sought treatment at a neuropsychiatric hospital but were unable to continue due to inadequate resources. ‘We appreciate the Edo Government for coming to our aid. We are hopeful that with the care she is receiving, she will recover and be reintegrated into society,’ he said.
Responding to the family’s commendation, Mrs. Abdallah assured them that the ministry would continue to monitor Madam Eguasa’s progress and provide necessary support throughout her rehabilitation. She emphasized the state government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that residents unable to care for themselves receive the required assistance.
Also contributing to the discussion, Mrs. Ediagbonya Clarice, a Social Welfare Officer in the ministry’s Rehabilitation Department, reiterated the government’s focus on supporting persons living with mental health conditions. She explained that affected individuals are assessed and provided with appropriate rehabilitation services, while families are encouraged to collaborate with authorities to ensure successful reintegration.
Clarice further mentioned that recovered individuals could benefit from empowerment programs aimed at promoting self-reliance and reducing vulnerability post-rehabilitation. She highlighted that mental health challenges can originate from factors such as depression, substance abuse, and traumatic life experiences, underscoring the importance of early intervention.
Expressing concern over the increasing cases of mental health challenges among young people, Clarice attributed some of these cases to the abuse of harmful substances. She urged parents, guardians, and communities to pay closer attention to the wellbeing of young people and encourage those facing challenges to seek help promptly.
NAN reports that the Edo Government rescued Madam Eguasa on July 13 after receiving information about her condition and subsequently commenced her rehabilitation program.