By Mercy Aondoaseer 

Family members, friends and worshippers gathered on Sunday at St. Joseph Catholic Church Idyer for a thanksgiving service organised by Dr. Ijiko Bartholomew Eche following his recovery from a severe case of Lassa Fever.

The event, which was followed by a reception at Newcastle Event Centre, featured emotional testimonies from the doctor, family members and medical colleagues about his prolonged illness and recovery.

Dr. Ijiko Bartholomew Eche on Sunday recounted his battle with Lassa fever and an alleged near-death experience during treatment, describing his survival as a testimony of faith and resilience.

Speaking during a thanksgiving service held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Dr. Eche said his health challenge began on February 13, 2026, after he developed a severe fever.

According to him, he presented himself at Benue State University Teaching Hospital on February 15, where he was admitted at the emergency unit before doctors reportedly suspected Lassa fever and transferred him to the isolation ward.

He stated that tests later confirmed the viral infection and his condition deteriorated progressively, leading to arrangements for advanced treatment at Jos University Teaching Hospital.

Dr. Eche explained that he required dialysis treatment while in Jos and disclosed that plans were reportedly underway to transfer him to Edo State after the dialysis machine developed faults for two days before it was eventually repaired.

Narrating the critical phase of his treatment, he claimed he lost consciousness during dialysis and was later informed that medical personnel believed he had died.

According to Dr. Eche, he later regained consciousness moments after hearing the voice of his younger brother, Mr. Inalegwu Eche, calling on him to return.

The physician said he gradually regained strength after the incident and was eventually discharged from hospital care.

He appreciated his wife, relatives, medical workers and supporters for their prayers, financial assistance and emotional support throughout the period of illness.

Also speaking during the reception, Dr. Michael Ejiko, elder brother of Dr. Eche, said the family was deeply distressed as the doctor battled repeated convulsions, oxygen dependency and multiple blood transfusions during treatment.

Mr. Inalegwu Eche, younger brother of the survivor, maintained that his brother became unresponsive during dialysis before regaining consciousness, describing the development as divine intervention.

Delivering a sermon during the thanksgiving service, Pastor Angel Akali urged worshippers to embrace thanksgiving and value the gift of life.
Medical colleagues including Dr. Solomon Obekpa, Dr. Emmanuel Ikyoive and Nurse Priscilla Adzo also expressed gratitude over the recovery, noting that they participated in aspects of his treatment and care.

Lassa fever remains a recurring public health concern in Nigeria, particularly during the dry season, with health authorities consistently advising early diagnosis and prompt treatment to reduce fatalities.

Claims relating to Dr. Eche’s alleged death and return to life were presented as personal testimonies and were not independently medically verified at the time of filing this report.