Benin Erupts in Anger as Infant Contracts HIV from Alleged Contaminated Blood Transfusion

A family in Benin City, Edo State, is seeking justice after their infant son, Jeremiah, was allegedly infected with HIV following a blood transfusion at Safe Bliss Medical Centre.

According to the child’s father, Mr. Mumbor, both he and his wife, Elisa, tested HIV-negative. Their baby, however, tested positive for the virus only after undergoing a transfusion on February 6, 2025.

Mr. Mumbor said he offered to donate his own blood, but was informed the lab technician was unavailable. The hospital reportedly charged ₦40,000 for two units of blood from a bank. Following the transfusion, Jeremiah showed signs of recovery.

However, months later, after a second transfusion, the child’s health deteriorated. He was referred to Edo Specialist Hospital, where tests revealed he was HIV-positive. Further tests confirmed the diagnosis, while both parents remained HIV-negative. Medical experts suggested the infection was most likely contracted through transfused blood.

“My son is not even two years old, and now he will live with this forever. I just want justice,” Mr. Mumbor lamented.

The family lodged a complaint with the Edo State Ministry of Justice. Though hesitant at first, the hospital’s owner eventually appeared accompanied by lawyers. Authorities later sealed off the medical centre, citing a lack of operating license, but later advised the family to pursue legal redress independently.

Meanwhile, the police have opened an investigation into the matter. Human rights advocate Comrade Glory Omonigho called on authorities to take swift action, declaring,
“This is not just a personal issue; this is a public health crisis.”

The incident has sparked public outrage and underscored the need for stricter medical oversight and blood safety protocols. Nigerians now watch closely to see if justice will be delivered for baby Jeremiah.