The management of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital/Specialist Hospital (UNIMEDTH/SH), Akure, has dismissed claims that caskets are being sold within the hospital premises, clarifying that the casket storage facility at the mortuary is strictly for bodies awaiting collection by their families.
This response follows a communiqué issued by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State chapter, alleging that caskets were being sold near the Outpatient Department (OPD) and Emergency Unit of the hospital.
The management of UNIMEDTH however refutes such assertion as it is a misrepresentation of the fact.
For clarity, the mortuary, which operates under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, has undergone significant improvements, including the construction of a designated casket storage area. This facility is meant for families who bring in caskets in advance for their deceased loved ones before final burial arrangements are made. It is not a sales outlet, nor does the hospital engage in or permit the commercial sale of caskets within its premises.
The mortuary itself is a distinct entity, separated from the main hospital building by a fence, reinforcing its operational independence. Over time, the facility has enhanced its services, including the installation of modern cooling chambers, a standby power generator, and a well-maintained environment to provide dignified mortuary services.
On rare occasions, families may choose to purchase caskets from external vendors and store them at the mortuary before the final burial rites. However, this should not be misinterpreted as casket sales taking place within the hospital. The primary focus of the mortuary remains the professional handling and preservation of deceased persons.
UNIMEDTH assures the public of its commitment to maintaining a dignified, ethical, and professional healthcare environment. The management urges the public to disregard misleading information and avoid spreading unfounded claims that could cause unnecessary panic.
Signed,
UNIMED Teaching Hospital/SH, Akure Management
