A Grade 16 teacher in Cross River State, Mrs. Virtue Umera Bassey, lost her right leg due to complications arising from diabetes.
Ms Bassey, a teacher at Adiabo Government Secondary School, Tinapa, had battled diabetes for several years and reportedly spent substantial sums on medical treatment before being referred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).
Doctors at the hospital amputated his right leg on August 26, 2025, after determining that the disease had severely affected the limb and that the procedure was medically necessary.
Following the amputation, Mrs Bassey has reportedly been suffering from frequent illnesses.
Despite his condition, he has expressed his willingness to return to his teaching duties once the school holidays are over.
Speaking about her plans, Ms Bassey said she hopes to resume work in January 2026, but noted that doctors advised her to wear a prosthesis, which she said would cost about N2.6 million.
She also stated that she has not received any support from the government and added that she is currently responsible for the education of her two children who are studying in universities.
Former Special Education Commissioner Castro Ezama, who visited her over Christmas, described Mrs. Bassey as one of the best English teachers in the state and asked for support.
Ezama noted that Ms. Bassey has about six years left before she retires and said she is optimistic that she will receive assistance in acquiring the required prosthesis.