Hoima Man Left Paralyzed, Abandoned After Grader Accident at EACOP Construction Site

Summary:

• A 25-year-old man, Ibrahim Ahumuza, was left paralyzed after being struck by a grader at an East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) construction site in Hoima District on July 26, 2024. Despite initial treatment, he has received no further care and is now bedridden, requiring urgent medical attention. Ahumuza’s family is calling for support from EACOP and well-wishers to help cover his treatment costs. EACOP has not yet responded to inquiries about the incident.

A 25-year-old man is fighting for his life after being struck by a grader in a horrific accident that left him paralyzed, losing not only the use of his lower limbs but also his bowel and bladder control.

Ibrahim Ahumuza, a former mason who had recently joined NEC Works and Engineering Limited as a contractor at the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) pad station in Nyamasoga village, Kabaale Sub County, Hoima District, was knocked down by the grader on July 26, 2024. He had been working at the construction site for just a few months when the incident occurred.

Ahumuza was directing a vehicle at the pump station when the grader struck him from behind. He was initially taken to City Medicals in Hoima for treatment, but claims the company failed to pay for his care, abandoning him at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. Later, officials from EACOP reportedly took him back to City Medicals before referring him to Nakasero Hospital, where his condition was left unaddressed. He has since returned home to Kinina Village in Kitoba Sub County, where he remains in severe pain and unable to move.

Speaking from his sickbed, Ahumuza told a reporter that his condition is worsening, and he is desperately calling for help from the company and well-wishers to cover the treatment costs that will give him a chance to recover and return to work.

Florence Isingoma, Ibrahim’s mother, and Jackline Kayesu, his wife, described their life as increasingly difficult, with no support from the oil companies. They are now calling on the authorities and EACOP to step in and ensure Ibrahim receives the treatment he desperately needs.

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, Michael Kyakashari, the Deputy RDC for Hoima District, expressed concern over the lack of information surrounding the incident, noting that Ibrahim allegedly requested money rather than medical treatment, a claim the victim vehemently denies.

As of the time of publication, EACOP has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the incident or their involvement in the case. The family and the community are anxiously awaiting a response, hoping for assistance that will give Ibrahim a fighting chance at recovery.