The Edo State Government has reunited Mr. Peter Guobadia, a 53-year-old deportee from the United States, with his family after rescuing him in Benin City while he was experiencing severe mental distress.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, said the intervention followed Guobadia’s rescue and referral for urgent medical and psychiatric care at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uselu, where he is currently receiving treatment.
Speaking in Benin on Sunday, Abdallah said the case reflects the ministry’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons found in public spaces and ensuring they receive timely care, rehabilitation and social support.
A Senior Social Welfare Officer in the ministry, Mrs. Esther Eruanga, said the case came to official attention through media reports, which prompted rescue operations along Airport Road in Benin City. Preliminary assessments showed signs of severe mental distress, leading to his referral for specialised psychiatric treatment.
Eruanga added that sustained tracing efforts by the ministry and stakeholders led to the identification of Guobadia’s relatives and his eventual reunion with family members. Post-rehabilitation monitoring is ongoing to support his recovery and reintegration.
Another Social Welfare Officer, Mr. Ewere Samuel, said the case underscores the need for coordinated intervention for vulnerable persons, many of whom are abandoned without adequate family support. He called for stronger public enlightenment and improved post-care systems to reduce stigma and aid reintegration.
Guobadia’s uncle, Mr. Charles Imarhiagbe, who visited the hospital after seeing media reports, thanked the commissioner and the ministry for their prompt response and for facilitating the reunion.
Abdallah said the ministry is collaborating with mental health institutions, civil society organisations and development partners to strengthen rehabilitation, outreach and reintegration services for vulnerable residents across the state.
