Rescue and Support the Helpless Foundation (RESH Foundation), in partnership with the OPM Foundation, on Wednesday launched a free ambulance service in Rivers State to assist accident victims.
Speaking during the launch in Port Harcourt, Chairman of the Foundation, HRM King Apostle Dr. Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, said the initiative was motivated by the need to save the lives of helpless accident victims, particularly in hit-and-run cases.
“Many accident victims are abandoned on the road, especially in hit-and-run incidents. This informed the decision to launch a free ambulance service,” he said.
He explained that many deaths recorded from road accidents are due to delayed emergency response, lack of ambulance services, and inadequate medical support.
“There should be an emergency response. Delays and inadequate facilities worsen the situation, leading to preventable deaths,” he added.
Dr. Chinyere also noted that many good Samaritans are reluctant to assist accident victims out of fear of being held responsible if the victims die at the hospital.
He disclosed that the foundation has concluded plans to make monthly deposits at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) to cover first aid treatment for rescued victims.
According to him, RESH Foundation will pay for initial treatment before contacting the victims’ families.
“After the first aid, we will contact the family, who will then take over,” he said.
He announced a dedicated emergency contact line—08033385271—and urged members of the public to record a short video stating their name, location, and the date whenever they find an abandoned accident victim and send it to the number for immediate response.
“Once you see an abandoned accident victim, make a selfie video stating your name, location, and date, then send it to the dedicated line. The service is 100% free,” he said.
RESH Foundation is a non-governmental organisation focused on improving lives through locally driven solutions, particularly targeting underserved and hard-to-reach communities across Nigeria.
