, Abuja, has released a detailed account of the circumstances surrounding the death of Ifunanya){kind=link}
The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, has released a detailed account of the circumstances surrounding the death of Ifunanya Nwagene, a resident of the Federal Capital Territory who succumbed to complications from a snakebite.
Ms Nwagene passed away on January 31 after arriving at the hospital in critical condition, prompting public concern and online speculation about the hospital’s response to her case.
Addressing the matter, the Head of Clinical Services at FMC Abuja, Dr. Bioku Muftau, said medical personnel moved swiftly the moment the patient was received at the facility.
According to him, an initial assessment showed that the snakebite had triggered serious neurotoxic effects, a development that significantly worsened her prognosis.
He explained that such complications can rapidly impair breathing and vital neurological functions.
However, while arrangements were underway to move her to the Intensive Care Unit, her condition reportedly declined abruptly, forcing doctors to initiate emergency interventions.
“We acted without delay and followed established emergency protocols,” Muftau said.
“From the point of admission, our focus was on stabilising her and preventing further systemic failure.”
He disclosed that the medical team administered intravenous fluids, oxygen support, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and a full dose of polyvalent anti-snake venom in an effort to counter the toxin.
Furthermore, Muftau dismissed claims circulating on social media suggesting that the hospital lacked anti-venom or failed to respond adequately.
He described those assertions as misleading and inconsistent with what transpired.
“The suggestion that anti-snake venom was unavailable is simply incorrect,” he said.
“Every necessary medication and life-saving measure was deployed, but sadly, the severity of the venom’s impact overwhelmed all interventions.”
Despite prolonged resuscitation efforts, Muftau said the patient could not be revived, adding that the hospital shares in the grief of the bereaved family.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her loved ones,” he said.
“Losing a patient despite exhaustive medical effort is devastating for both the family and our staff.”
Meanwhile, FMC Abuja urged the public to seek information from verified sources and refrain from drawing conclusions based on unverified online narratives.
The hospital reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, professional ethics, and quality patient care, noting that it remains open to further clarification on the incident.