FCT’s Mandate Secretary sets up panel to probe death of woman at District Hospital

The Office of the Mandate Secretary- Health Services & Environment has set up an independent investigative panel with the Nigerian Police and other stakeholders to fully investigate the case of a woman who died at the Maitama District Hospital, FCT, Abuja.

Trending video on social media had it that a woman had died at the hospital alleging negligence and failures of the medical team at Maitama District Hospital.

A statement issue by Badaru Salisu Yakasai, Assistant Director (Information) HSES, said it has come to the attention of the Office of the Mandate Secretary- Health Services & Environment that the victim was brought to the facility at approximately 8.35pm on 26th September, 2023.

“The Secretariat and Mandate Secretary, Dr Dolapo Fasawe commiserate and extend heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased as a first matter. In addition, upon learning of the development, the Secretary immediately visited Maitama District Hospital which was at about 1:00am 29th September 2023 after calling the Medical Director of the facility and requesting an immediate meeting at the hospital in an unscheduled visit.

“The Medical Director, Dr Imuentinyan Igbinovia provided a verbal report of what transpired which included information that the victim was brought in dead. In the circumstances, and for clarity, the Secretary requested an autopsy and preparation for a Coroner’s Inquest to ascertain both the cause, and circumstances of the death of the victim,” the statement said.

The statement said the Secretary has been in active and constant communication with relevant parties, including the family, the Police, FCCPC and others with a view to ensuring the case is properly investigated.

“As such, the Secretariat has set up an independent investigative panel with the Nigerian Police and other stakeholders to fully investigate the case, and to ensure justice is served.

“The victim was thrown out of a moving vehicle and taken to hospital by good Samaritans. We implore the general public to be vigilant and exercise caution while admonishing security agencies to strengthen security and protection measures across the FCT.

“Whilst awaiting the outcome of the investigations, the Secretariat seeks patience and discretion until the investigations are completed,” it stated.