Ending Fatal Delays: Legislative Urgency on “Police Report before Treatment” Practice in Nigeria
Working Paper
Despite existing legal mandates such as the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act (2017) and the National Health Act (2014), some hospitals and ambulance services in Nigeria continue to demand police reports before providing emergency medical treatment. This unlawful practice has led to numerous preventable deaths, most recently the tragic killing of 20-month-old Emmanuel Eleweke in Imo State on June 9, 2025, after he was denied urgent care due to the absence of a police report. Notable victims of similar delays include NYSC member Precious Owolabi (2019), Greatness Olorunfemi (2023), and several others, suggesting a persistent national crisis. These violations reflect fear of police intimidation and institutional failure to enforce existing laws protecting emergency victims. Comparative practices from countries like the U.S., U.K., and South Africa establish the global norm of "treat first, report later," a standard Nigeria is yet to effectively implement. To address this fatal gap, the National Assembly may wish to: Immediate legislative intervention may save lives, uphold constitutional rights, and restore public trust in Nigeria’s healthcare and law enforcement institutions. ● Convene a public hearing involving the Minister of Health, IGP, Nigerian Medical Association, and hospital representatives to address enforcement failures; ● Call on the Ministry of Health and NOA to conduct a national education campaign on patient rights and emergency care obligations; ● Collaborate with state assemblies to harmonise enforcement and track fatalities caused by denial of care.