The Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City has firmly refuted a recent claim by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, describing it as false and misleading. In a press conference held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at its Archdiocesan Department of Social Communications, the Church clarified that the College of Nursing Sciences within the premises of St. Philomena Catholic Hospital is neither owned nor funded by the Edo State Government.
Speaking to reporters, Rev. Fr. Jude Orah, the Director of Social Communications for the Archdiocese, said the statement made by Senator Oshiomhole during a July 26 appearance on Arise News, where he claimed that the College was “built, equipped and owned and funded by Edo State Government hundred per cent,” is factually inaccurate and misrepresents the true ownership of the institution.
According to Fr. Orah, St. Philomena Catholic Hospital and its associated institutions—including the College of Nursing Sciences—were established by the Catholic Church, specifically the Archdiocese of Benin City, and have been sustained over the decades through the efforts of missionaries, priests, religious sisters, and donations from benefactors. He noted that the hospital was founded in 1947 as a charitable and faith-based response to healthcare needs and has never received government subvention or budgetary support.
The Archdiocese linked Oshiomhole’s remarks to political revisionism, particularly aimed at downplaying a ₦15 million donation made by former Anambra Governor Peter Obi to the College during his visit to the hospital on July 7, 2025. Fr. Orah condemned any attempt to politicize charitable acts or distort the historical and canonical foundations of church institutions.
Reiterating the Church’s canonical commitment to healthcare and education, Fr. Orah emphasized that St. Philomena stands as a sanctuary of healing, mercy, and service—not a political facility. He urged media outlets to fact-check public statements and cautioned political leaders against eroding public trust through misrepresentation.
The Archdiocese concluded by calling on Senator Oshiomhole to retract his comments and consult directly with Church authorities before making future claims. “Facts are sacred,” Fr. Orah said, “and when truth is wounded, it must be healed—just like a patient in the very wards of St. Philomena.”
