For six years, Emmanuel Agbota has remained at a prayer camp, caring for his wife, Akua, who suffers from a severe mental illness, refusing to leave her side despite the challenges.
The couple’s ordeal began after the birth of their daughter, who has since passed away. Shortly after the birth, Akua began exhibiting erratic behaviour and incoherent speech, prompting Emmanuel and her family to seek help at Pantang Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, limited access to care forced them to return home. Eventually, Akua was taken to the prayer camp at Yokitipo, where she has remained ever since.
“I attend church with her. I learned that we should love our neighbour as ourselves. It is my duty to take care of her. I’m hoping that her condition will improve one day,” Emmanuel told Portia Gabor.
Unlike many men who abandon partners during mental health crises, Emmanuel moved into the prayer camp to provide round-the-clock support, attending to all of Efia’s needs. “Nothing, absolutely nothing, not even the weight of mental illness, will ever make me leave her side. I will not leave her until death do us part,” he said.
Christian Voloto, a physician assistant with the Ghana Health Service, has been overseeing Akua’s medical care at the camp. He diagnosed her with schizophrenia and has administered a long-acting medication designed to provide relief for one month at a time. Voloto noted the rarity of Emmanuel’s dedication, highlighting that most men in similar circumstances have abandoned their partners.
“In fact, all the cases I’ve seen where the woman got sick, the men have left. To hear that someone has stuck with his wife in this state for six years is remarkable,” Voloto said. “By the second or third week of medication, we expect to see gradual improvements.”
The story of Emmanuel and Akua is one of enduring love, faith, and sacrifice. For Emmanuel, the hope of recovery keeps him steadfast. For observers, it is a testament to the power of devotion in the face of prolonged hardship.
Those wishing to support Emmanuel in caring for his wife can reach him via mobile money at 0557717988.
This is a special report by Portia Gabor