The High Court in Nairobi has ordered Aga Khan University Hospital to release the body of retired Nigerian Air Force officer, Air Vice Marshal Terry O. Okorodudu (Ret.), who died on September 9, 2025, while receiving treatment at the facility.
The release, however, comes with conditions. Justice directed that the deceased’s son, Bidemi Okorodudu, must either deposit Ksh.8 million as security or surrender his passport to the court. This condition will remain in place until a pending case over unpaid medical bills is resolved.
Family’s Petition
Bidemi, acting as the legal representative of his late father’s estate, argued that the hospital was unlawfully detaining the body over a disputed medical bill of Ksh.9.8 million. Through his lawyers, he claimed that the continued detention of the remains violated the deceased’s dignity as enshrined in Article 28 of Kenya’s Constitution.
The family sought unconditional release of the body to enable repatriation to Nigeria for a military funeral. They also called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other state agencies to facilitate the process, warning that the standoff risked causing diplomatic strain between Kenya and Nigeria.
Hospital’s Response
Aga Khan University Hospital opposed the application, insisting the family must clear the outstanding bill. In an affidavit, Patient Services Manager Jackson Awuor detailed the extensive specialized care provided to the late officer, including treatment for severe heart failure, kidney disease, and liver complications.
The hospital also accused Bidemi of hostility towards medical staff, despite signing payment guarantees. By the time of death, the bill had risen beyond Ksh.8 million, a figure the hospital insists must be secured before releasing the body.
Court’s Conditional Order
In its ruling, the court balanced both sides, directing that the remains be released if Bidemi complies with either of the two conditions. The case will be mentioned at a later date for further directions.
