In a remarkable act of compassion and sustained philanthropy, Haruna Iddrisu, Member of Parliament for Tamale North and Minister for Education, has once again stepped in to save the life of a six-year-old boy, Abdula Hannan, by fully sponsoring his fourth major surgery at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
The latest procedure, scheduled for March 25, 2026, comes at a significant cost of $25,000 (approximately GH¢300,000), all of which has been borne by the Minister.
This marks the fourth in a series of complex medical interventions the young boy has undergone since suffering severe internal injuries at the age of two.
Abdula Hannan’s ordeal began tragically when he accidentally ingested a corrosive, soda-based chemical substance while playing at home. The incident caused extensive internal damage, leaving him unable to feed normally and requiring urgent and ongoing medical attention.
Over the past four years, he has undergone three separate surgeries aimed at stabilizing his condition and preparing him for a final corrective procedure. Throughout this period, doctors at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital have closely monitored his progress, carefully timing the final surgery to coincide with an age deemed suitable for the complex operation.
Currently, the young boy survives through a surgically created opening in his stomach, a condition that has significantly affected his quality of life. The upcoming procedure is expected to be a decisive step toward restoring his ability to eat through his mouth and live a more normal childhood.
According to family sources, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu’s involvement began through a chance encounter with the struggling family. Deeply moved by the boy’s condition and the family’s inability to afford treatment, he immediately took responsibility for the child’s medical expenses.
Since then, he has consistently funded all four surgeries, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the child’s recovery. Speaking to the media, a representative of the Minister, Rafia Hajiah Rashida, confirmed his continued support.
“Since that day, the little boy has undergone three successful surgeries under the sponsorship of Hon. Haruna Iddrisu. The fourth surgery, which is taking place today, costs about $25,000,” she disclosed.
She further assured that the Minister remains committed not only to the surgery but also to the boy’s post-operative care, which will be critical in ensuring a full recovery.
For Abdula Hannan’s parents, Abdula Ibrahim Antwi and Seidu Kashifa, the intervention has been nothing short of life-saving. As small-scale farmers with limited income, the cost of the surgeries would have been impossible to bear.
“Without Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, we would not have been able to afford our son’s medical care,” the father said, his voice heavy with emotion. “Our annual income is far below the cost of these treatments.”
He recounted the family’s difficult medical journey, which began in Tamale and later extended to facilities such as Tachiman Holy Family Hospital, before finally arriving at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital for specialized care.
The boy’s mother, visibly overwhelmed, described the Minister as a “saviour” and appealed to the public to recognize his generosity.
“I don’t know how to thank him. Wherever you see Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, please thank him on our behalf,” she said tearfully.
Beyond the immediate medical intervention, the case has also sparked renewed calls for increased parental vigilance. Rafia Hajiah Rashida used the occasion to caution families about the dangers of leaving hazardous substances within reach of children.
“This unfortunate incident highlights the dangers of exposing children to harmful chemicals,” she warned, urging parents to take proactive measures to prevent similar accidents.
As Abdula Hannan prepares to undergo this crucial surgery, there is renewed hope that the young boy will soon overcome the challenges that have defined much of his early life.
The procedure represents not just a medical milestone, but a chance at normalcy one that has been made possible through the extraordinary generosity of a public servant who chose to act when it mattered most.
In a time when stories of hardship often dominate the headlines, this act of kindness stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of empathy, leadership, and human compassion.
