Ex-AIT Bureau Chief Seeks ₦5m Support for Surgery, Rehabilitation
Former African Independent Television (AIT) Bureau Chief, Mr. Tonymark Asamali Imakhe, has appealed to Nigerians, corporate organisations and philanthropists for financial assistance to enable him undergo medical treatment and rehabilitation after being struck by stroke and severe osteoarthritis.
Imakhe, a former staff member of Daar Communications Plc, said his prolonged health challenges have left him physically incapacitated and forced him out of active journalism.
The veteran journalist, an Economics graduate of the University of Ibadan, began his media career by founding two community newspapers, Ekperi Voice and Central News, which focused on community development and grassroots reporting in Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State.
His contributions at the grassroots level later earned him a position with Daar Communications Plc, where he served as a reporter and editor before rising to become Head of Station at AIT Agenebode and subsequently AIT Benin.
However, his professional journey was disrupted in June 2019 when he suffered a major stroke, which he described as a recurrence of an earlier partial stroke experienced in 2017.
“This is the second time I am suffering this ailment. It first occurred as a partial stroke in 2017,” he said.
According to him, the condition was further complicated by severe osteoarthritis affecting his left shoulder and hand, making it difficult for him to perform routine tasks independently.
Imakhe disclosed that his deteriorating health eventually led to the termination of his appointment in 2020.
“My job was terminated in 2020 because my employers found me virtually incapacitated,” he said.
Despite the challenges, he has continued with physiotherapy sessions, daily therapeutic massages and other specialised medical treatments aimed at restoring his health.
Medical experts attending to him have reportedly recommended brain surgery to improve blood circulation to affected parts of the brain, a procedure considered essential to his recovery.
The cost of the proposed surgery, rehabilitation and continued treatment is estimated at about ₦5 million, prompting his appeal for public support.
Imakhe expressed optimism that with adequate medical care and financial assistance, he would regain his health and rebuild his life.
He called on friends, former colleagues, media organisations, corporate bodies and well-meaning Nigerians to come to his aid.
“This is a call to stand by a man who once stood firmly for his community, a voice for the voiceless who now needs others to speak and act on his behalf,” the appeal stated.
Donations can be made through Zenith Bank (Account Number: 2084225203) and Opay (Account Number: 8021444557). Interested members of the public can also contact him via 07038387425 or 08059276310 for further information.
