The Editor-In-Chief visited the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Uselu in Edo State. He got talking with an outpatient who came to purchase his medications.
I was born out of wedlock in the early 1980’s to a couple who were in a serious relationship that everyone thought would lead to marriage. My dad was 18 and my mum was 16 at the time of my birth.
Eventually my dad left for the UK to further his education and the relationship couldn’t withstand the long distance and so they broke up though in an amicable way.
I grew up in Benin with my maternal grandparents and I played a lot of pranks as a child often climbing trees and stealing fruits from the houses of our neighbours.
School was also fun even though I was not too academically inclined as I was more of a sportsman. I was gregarious and made friends very easily.
My problem with my parents started when I finished from the university and found it difficult to get a decent job. I then became a pentecoastal Christian and got born again.
I was filled with the zeal to preach the word of God and was eager to convert my pagan parents to Christianity.
My parents resisted by labelling me a religious fanatic and later insane. To shut me up they brought me here – Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Uselu in Edo State. I have been here many times and would never be silenced.
I don’t believe in taking the medications as there is absolutely nothing wrong with me.
I have not been on speaking terms with my dad for over a year now and he cut off all forms of financial aid to me simply because I refused to take my medications.
I had to pretend to buy my medications today so as to curry back his favour as I don’t have a job yet. I feel like a hopeless coward but do I have a choice other than to go back to my vomit like a dog?
I have attempted to improve my lot in life. My American visa was denied twice. I wanted to do my Masters degree in Uncle Sam through my dad’s assistance.
I am not giving up hope and waiting on God for a miracle so that I can once more live a normal life.
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