Former editor of PUNCH newspaper and ex-provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) Gbemiga Ogunleye has recounted his recent harrowing experience undergoing surgery to remove a growth on his vocal cord.
In a reflective Facebook post on Monday, Mr Ogunleye detailed his journey from diagnosis to recovery, highlighting his fears, faith and gratitude.
Ogunleye revealed that his ordeal began with persistent heartburn and a worsening huskiness in his voice. Consulting an ENT specialist at a private clinic, he was diagnosed with a fleshy mass on his right vocal cord requiring surgery. Determined to avoid conventional surgery, Ogunleye opted for laser excision but faced challenges finding a hospital in Nigeria equipped for the procedure.
After exhausting options in Lagos and receiving an unaffordable quote from a hospital in London, Ogunleye was referred to Jowaco Specialist Hospital in Kaduna.
Reflecting on his experience on the operating table, Ogunleye shared the flood of emotions and thoughts that consumed him. “Surviving the surgery was a fifty-fifty chance,” he wrote. “I asked myself why I didn’t tell my creditors I was going for surgery. At least they would want me alive to repay my debts!”
He humorously imagined headlines announcing his demise but found solace in faith. Gbemiga Ogunleye, ex-NIJ provost, is dead!” and “Gbemiga Ogunleye, ex-PUNCH editor, is dead!” were two screaming headlines that came to his mind.
“I became emboldened and told myself as my Christian friends would say: ‘I shall not die but live.’ My parents in heaven would see to that. My mother, especially, wouldn’t sleep. She would ensure that her son survived the surgery,” he wrote.
The surgery lasted approximately 90 minutes, and Ogunleye regained consciousness five hours later. Expressing his deep gratitude to God, he reflected, “If you know the number of people who didn’t wake up after surgery, you will understand why songs of praise and thanksgiving have been on my lips. Indeed, the Lord is good!”
The heartfelt post has resonated with many, drawing comments and prayers from colleagues, friends, and admirers who praised Ogunleye’s courage and faith throughout the ordeal.
