From the Streets to Hope: Wonder Life Rehabilitation Centre Rescues Long-Abandoned Mentally Ill Man

By Uduak Akai
ORUK ANAM
A man long known to residents for wandering the streets between Ekparakwa and Abak has been rescued and taken into care by Wonder Life Mental Rehabilitation Centre, marking a significant step in efforts to provide support and treatment for persons living with mental health challenges in Akwa Ibom State.
The rescue operation was carried out by the management of the centre, a faith-based non-governmental organisation located in Ikot Afanga, Oruk Anam Local Government Area, following years of concern over the man’s condition and welfare.
Speaking on the development, President of the centre, Dr. Godwin Udofah, said the man’s situation had troubled many residents for years, prompting repeated discussions on how he could be helped and rehabilitated.
According to him, the successful evacuation and admission of the man into the facility was made possible through divine guidance, commitment and the collective concern of members of the community.
Dr. Udofah disclosed that the facility, also known as Wonder Life Care Mission (WOLCAM) International, immediately commenced medical and rehabilitative care upon the man’s arrival.
He expressed gratitude that the patient has responded positively to treatment and is currently in stable condition, with encouraging signs of recovery.
The WOLCAM President explained that the organisation was established to restore hope, dignity and social inclusion to persons living with mental health conditions through a combination of medical, psychological and spiritual support.
He noted that over the past three decades, the organisation has rehabilitated and reunited more than 760 individuals with their families, helping many regain their lives after years of abandonment and stigma.
“Our vision is to build a mentally healthy society where persons living with psychological disabilities can enjoy dignity, acceptance and support without discrimination or neglect,” he said.
Dr. Udofah further called on government agencies, corporate organisations, development partners and public-spirited individuals to collaborate with the centre in expanding mental healthcare services across the state.
According to him, partnership with the organisation provides an opportunity to restore lives, strengthen communities and promote a sustainable model of community-based mental healthcare in Akwa Ibom State.
While acknowledging the progress recorded by the centre, he stressed that much more remains to be done to address the challenges facing persons living with mental illness, many of whom continue to lack access to treatment, shelter and family support.
The latest rescue, he said, serves as a reminder that mental illness should not be met with abandonment or ridicule, but with compassion, treatment and a collective commitment to restoring human dignity.