Omotesho battles abdominal tuberculosis, seeks N10m for surgery

A 51-year-old man, Folarin Omotesho, is fighting for his life after a prolonged battle with abdominal tuberculosis, which has left him in critical condition.
Omotesho’s health struggles began in January 2024, when he was hospitalised for two months and underwent surgery. However, the relief was short-lived as, by May 2024, he began experiencing severe symptoms, including persistent coughing, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing.

In a desperate bid to find a solution, Omotesho sought medical help at the Isolo General Hospital, Lagos Island General Hospital, and the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) in Yaba.

However, after extensive evaluations, he was referred to a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon, who informed him that he would require urgent surgery costing approximately N10 million.

Omotesho, who spoke with The Guardian, revealed that he has exhausted his personal savings, even selling his car to cover his mounting medical expenses. While friends and family have rallied to support him, their combined efforts have proven insufficient, leaving him with no option but to appeal for public assistance.

According to a medical report from FitPlus Healthcare, Omotesho’s condition includes multiple complications. The report highlighted “gross ascites” and a “cystic mass in the right hemithorax measuring 17.5 x 14.3 x 13.1 cm,” which is causing significant pressure on his internal organs, including his liver and lungs. The mass is reportedly displacing the right diaphragm and liver, leading to further complications such as passive lung collapse and pleural effusion.

The report also noted that Omotesho suffers from hepatomegaly with diffuse hepatic steatosis, an umbilical hernia, and a possible lung abscess. These complex conditions have severely impacted his health, requiring urgent medical intervention to prevent further deterioration.

In an emotional appeal, Omotesho said, “I have spent everything I have. I am begging for help to save my life. My family’s future depends on this.” As Omotesho’s condition worsens, he urgently needs support from kind-hearted individuals, corporate organisations, and government agencies to raise the necessary funds for the life-saving surgery.

Donations can be made to his account:
Account Name: Folarin Theophilus Omotesho; Bank: UBA: Account Number: 2121174060.
Omotesho can be reached directly at 08033856052 for further information or support.