Akwa Ibom Doctors Risk Sanction Over Pregnant Woman’s Death
Three doctors at Ikot Ekpene General Hospital in Akwa Ibom State face disciplinary action after a pregnant woman, Ndiana Amos, and her baby died from alleged medical negligence.
The State House of Assembly Committee on Health, after its investigation, directed the Ministry of Health and the Hospitals Management Board to sanction the doctors.
Chairman of the Committee, Moses Essien, who represents Ibiono Ibom Constituency, issued the directive during a meeting with the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, and top officials of the ministry and hospital board on Thursday.
The deceased reportedly died last weekend with her baby following complications captured in a viral video shared by her sister, sparking public outrage. Governor Umo Eno immediately ordered a probe into the matter.
During an unscheduled fact-finding visit on Monday, the committee ruled out lack of resources as the cause of death and blamed it on negligence.
Findings showed that Dr. Mfon Thomas, the first doctor on call, diagnosed placenta previa and sought a second opinion from Dr. Enobong Udota, who was absent. Another doctor, Dr. EtoroAbasi Okon, who was not on duty, arrived nearly two hours late, while the Consultant Obstetrician, Dr. Ekerette Dan, was never informed of the emergency.
By the time surgery was carried out, the baby had already died. Although the mother initially survived the operation, she later died from excessive bleeding.
Essien, disturbed by the findings, vowed that the Assembly would ensure sanctions are imposed, describing the incident as a preventable tragedy caused by professional lapses. He also directed the health commissioner to take responsibility and forward recommendations to the governor.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
