A moment of celebration quickly turned emotional at the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Lokoja, Kogi State, after a man, identified as Adamu Muhammed Tenimu, fainted upon hearing that his wife had delivered triplets.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident unfolded shortly after the delivery on Friday. Muhammed, visibly stunned by the news that his wife had given birth to three baby girls, was overwhelmed and collapsed. He was promptly assisted by medical personnel and sympathisers, who managed to revive him.
Hospital sources confirmed that the mother and her three newborn daughters are stable and receiving care. The triplets, weighing 1.8kg, 2.0kg, and 2.3kg respectively, have been admitted to the neonatal unit and are said to be responding positively to treatment.
Following the incident, Muhammed spoke to journalists and shared his mixed emotions. Though grateful for the safe delivery, he said he was distressed by the sudden financial pressure. He explained that the family had only expected one child and had not been able to afford regular prenatal scans, making the arrival of three babies a complete surprise.
“I thank God for this blessing, but I am filled with fear and confusion,” he said, breaking into tears. “We didn’t prepare for this. I’m currently unemployed, and we are already struggling to get by. Now, I don’t know how we’re going to afford hospital bills, baby food, or even diapers.”
Muhammed described the situation as a huge responsibility, noting that even basic preparations had been difficult due to their financial constraints. He appealed for help, saying that the joy of becoming a father to triplets was being clouded by the uncertainty of how to care for them.
Those who witnessed the event echoed his concerns and called on the public to assist the family. One relative explained that the babies were in good health but that the family lacked the resources to provide for them. He urged government agencies, religious institutions, and charitable organisations to extend support.
“The babies are healthy, but they need consistent care. The family simply doesn’t have the means. We are calling on anyone who can to come to their aid,” the family member said.
In response to the situation, neighbours and friends have begun efforts to gather support. A colleague of Muhammed, Mr. Nuhu Alhassan, appealed to the Kogi State Government and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to intervene, describing the father as a diligent and responsible man facing a daunting challenge.
“This is a hardworking individual who now finds himself in an overwhelming situation,” Alhassan said. “The government needs to step in quickly and support him.”
Residents have also joined the call for donations, urging individuals and philanthropic organisations to provide essentials such as baby food, clothing, and funds for medical expenses.
Sikiru Olamide, one of the concerned citizens, emphasised the importance of community support during such trying times. “This should be a joyful moment, not one overshadowed by worry,” he said. “Let’s come together and ensure that this family receives the help they need.”
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