The Aaron Ponuwei Ebelo Foundation, on Sunday, provided free medical care to residents of Gbelebu community in Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative was part of activities to mark the Easter celebration.
The outreach also extended to neighbouring villages, including Madagbayo, Safarogbo, and Gbelemotin, with some beneficiaries referred to the Iguobazuwa General Hospital for further evaluation and specialized treatment.
Services provided included free prescription glasses for vision correction, medications for minor ailments, and general health screenings such as blood pressure and blood glucose tests to promote wellness.
Established in 2024, the Aaron Ponuwei Ebelo Foundation was founded in memory of the late Chief Aaron Ponuwei Ebelo, former Okito of Gbelebu, who passed away on April 7, 2023.
Speaking at the event, Mr Goodluck Ilajufi Ebelo, Chairman of the Foundation and CEO of Farmer Ebelo Limited, said the initiative was in honour of his father’s legacy of community service to the Izon people.
“When my father died in 2023, I reflected on his life of service and felt the need to continue his legacy of selfless support for others,” he said.
“He was once a teacher in this community before becoming a chief, and this foundation is our way of keeping his passion for helping people alive.”
Ebelo noted that the foundation’s vision extended beyond healthcare, encompassing education and entrepreneurship for members of the Arogbo Ijaw-Ibe Clan.
“We want to expand this mission and hope other sons and daughters of the clan will join us in empowering our people,” he added.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Ebiere Kimibradigha, expressed gratitude for the free treatment and medical glasses, describing the outreach as a reflection of the late chief’s generosity.
“This reminds me of how our late chief always looked after us,” she said.
Seigha Warifa, a farmer and fisherman, also praised the foundation for its outreach and expressed hope for more initiatives in the future.
At least 10 medical doctors from various specialties, along with supporting health personnel, attended to residents from Gbelebu and surrounding communities during the exercise.
