Celebrity barman and nightlife promoter, Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has voiced his deep frustration over the state of Nigeria’s healthcare system, describing it as nothing short of a “joke.”
Taking to his Instagram Stories, the socialite recounted his disappointing experience at a hospital in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he has been a long-time patient.
“Over an Hour, No Doctor” – Chief Priest’s Ordeal
According to him, after his vitals were checked, he was left waiting for more than an hour without being attended to by a doctor. Out of consideration for their business, he chose not to disclose the hospital’s name but expressed dismay at the lack of urgency in handling patients.
He later proceeded to another hospital in Lekki, where he was required to fill out a lengthy online form before being able to see a doctor. Eventually, he was diagnosed with typhoid and malaria and placed on medication.
Plans to Seek Treatment Abroad
Expressing his dissatisfaction, Cubana Chief Priest revealed his intention to travel to the United Kingdom for what he described as “proper healthcare,” lamenting the difficulty of accessing quality medical services in Nigeria.
“Honestly, healthcare is a joke in this country. Walked into a hospital I’ve been using in Ikoyi for years, sick. After vitals, it’s over an hour plus and no doctor is available. I no wan post the hospital because I understand what business is all about.
I went to another one in Lekki and I had to fill a long form online before seeing a doctor. Well, I don go med plus go buy medication for typhoid and malaria. If I reach UK, make I do proper healthcare there. It’s a shame sha, na God dey save person for this country.”
Nigerians React
His outburst has since sparked mixed reactions. While many Nigerians agreed with his concerns and pointed out the unreliability of the healthcare system, others criticized celebrities for choosing to seek medical care abroad rather than investing in the improvement of local hospitals.
Bigger Picture
Cubana Chief Priest’s lament once again draws attention to the chronic issues plaguing Nigeria’s healthcare system — from underfunding and inadequate infrastructure to poor service delivery. For many citizens, survival often relies more on faith and luck than on dependable medical attention.