When residents of Modakeke woke up on October 21, 2025, they never imagined their community would come together to protect a newborn fighting for a chance at life.
But that was exactly what happened after a mentally-challenged woman went into labour behind a small health post in the Itaasin area — and compassionate health workers rushed to help.
Today, the Osun State Government says the baby is safe, healthy, and receiving full care at a protected childcare facility. But the journey to that point is a story of swift action, compassion and a community that refused to let a vulnerable child slip through the cracks.
According to officials, workers at the Itaasin Primary Healthcare Centre noticed the woman in distress and immediately intervened, safely delivering the baby despite the difficult circumstances. Their quick response caught the attention of a Non-governmental Organization (NGO) working on maternal and child health.
An official of the NGO, Kehinde Akinsola, said the organisation learned of the birth through one of its midwives stationed at the clinic.
“We had to act fast,” he explained. “Our concern was the safety of the newborn. People were already coming forward trying to claim the baby without any legitimate reason. We immediately alerted the authorities to ensure the child was protected.”
The NGO followed up with formal notifications to government officials, sparking a coordinated response from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, the Primary Healthcare Board, and even the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, who also intervened to safeguard the child.
At a meeting in Osogbo on Monday, officials of the NGO visited the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs to verify the baby’s condition and commend the government’s handling of the situation.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Abimbola Babatunde, said the government had taken full custody of the child.
“The baby is doing well. He is in a secure childcare home and is receiving all necessary care,” she said, appreciating the NGO for raising the alarm early and monitoring the welfare of the child.
To honour the health workers who stepped in on the day of delivery, the NGO presented Certificates of Commendation, describing them as “heroes who acted with humanity.” The group also donated baby items to support the child’s ongoing care.
For the people of Modakeke, the incident has become more than a medical emergency. It is a reminder that community care still thrives — and that even in the most unexpected moments, compassion can give a child a fresh start.
