Kano Probes Housewife’s Death After Doctors Allegedly Left Scissors In Stomach

The Kano State Hospitals Management Board has ordered an investigation into the death of a housewife, Aishatu Umar, linked to alleged medical negligence after a surgical procedure at Abubakar Imam Urology Centre, Kano.

In a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the board, Samira Suleiman, on Tuesday, the board assured the public that the investigation would be transparent, impartial and professional.

It added that appropriate action would be taken in line with established regulations should any negligence be established.

“The Kano State Hospitals Management Board, under the leadership of the Executive Secretary, Dr Mansur Mudi Nagoda, has taken note of the distressing report concerning the late Aishatu Umar,” the statement read.

“We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. The Executive Secretary has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the alleged incident at Abubakar Imam Urology Centre to ascertain the facts and circumstances surrounding the matter.

“Patient safety remains our utmost priority, and the board is committed to upholding the highest standards of healthcare delivery in Kano State,” it added.

Umar reportedly died after months of severe pain in her belly, which her family attributed to suspected medical negligence following a surgical procedure carried out at the hospital.

A family member, Abubakar Mohammed, had posted on Facebook stating that the mother of five died around 1 a.m. on Tuesday.

“Umar began to complain of severe abdominal pain, which persisted for several months. She suffered this pain for four months,” Mohammed said.

Mohammed alleged that despite repeated visits to the hospital, medical personnel only administered pain relief drugs and discharged her without carrying out comprehensive investigations.

He further stated that it was only two days before her death that detailed medical tests and scans were conducted, which allegedly revealed that a pair of scissors had been left inside the deceased’s body during the September surgery.

“Efforts were being made to perform corrective surgery, but her time had run out,” he said.

“Is this not pure negligence? How can trained doctors forget scissors inside a patient?” he questioned.