Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has called on Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their healthcare needs following the death of singer Ifunanya Nwangene, popularly known as Nanyah.
Reacting to the tragedy, Omokri first expressed sympathy to the bereaved family. “May her soul rest in peace. She was a rising star who did not deserve to die this way. Nigeria has suffered a huge loss,” he said.
He explained that while emotions are natural, they should not replace practical thinking. “We like to react with anger and tears, but we rarely stop to learn lessons and make changes,” Omokri stated.
According to him, many Nigerians expect emergency treatment without financial preparation. “Healthcare is not charity. Hospitals are not non-profit organisations,” he said. “If you have no insurance, no money, and no guarantor, it becomes risky for private hospitals to treat you.”
Omokri insisted that unpaid bills are a major problem in the system. “Let’s be honest. If a hospital treats you without collecting payment, most people will not pay. As soon as they recover, they disappear,” he said.
He encouraged citizens to register with the National Health Insurance Authority or private insurers. “If you want access to emergency care, get health insurance. Don’t wait until crisis comes,” he advised.
He also challenged lifestyle priorities. “If you can afford expensive phones, hair, and nightlife but cannot save for emergencies, then you are not being responsible,” Omokri added.
