•Late Aishatu Umar
The Abubakar Imam Urology Centre, Kano, has been accused of medical negligence resulting in the death of Aishatu Umar, a patient.
The deceased’s husband, Abubakar Muhammad, alleged that his wife died from complications linked to a surgical procedure carried out at the facility, reports Daily Trust.
It was gathered that she passed away in the early hours of yesterday. Scissors was reportedly left in her stomach after surgery.
Muhammad told our correspondent that the deceased, who fell ill some months ago, underwent surgery at the health facility in September.
He said after the operation, she began experiencing severe abdominal pain.
According to him, “Each time she returned to the hospital to complain, she was only given pain-relief medication without further investigation. They usually told her that the pain was normal for patients who underwent surgery, but never recommended x-ray or any scanning,” the husband said.
Muhammad said the pain continued for about four months until medical tests and scans were eventually conducted at Muhammad Abdullahi Wade Specialist Hospital and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.
The results, they claimed, revealed that a pair of surgical scissors had been left inside her body during the September operation.
Efforts were reportedly underway to conduct a corrective surgery to remove the object, but Umar died before the procedure could be carried out.
Describing the incident as gross negligence, the husband said the development had not only caused his family deep grief but also raised serious concerns about professional standards in the healthcare system.
“While we acknowledge that death is inevitable, we cannot understand how such an error could occur during a surgical procedure. Incidents like this undermine public confidence in medical professionals and health institutions,” Muhammad said.
He called on the state government and relevant regulatory authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly and take appropriate action, insisting that justice must be served.
As of the time of filing this report, the management of the hospital had not issued an official response to the allegations.
We’ll investigate thoroughly – Kano Hospitals Management Board
Meanwhile, the Kano State Hospitals Management Board ordered immediate and thorough investigation into the issue.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr. Mansur Mudi Nagoda, gave the order today, saying the investigation is to ascertain the facts and circumstances surrounding the matter.
“We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. The investigation will be transparent, impartial, and professional, and appropriate actions will be taken in line with established regulations should any negligence be established,” the statement added.
The Board assured the public that patient safety remains its utmost priority and pledged commitment to upholding the highest standards of healthcare delivery in Kano.
