Nwagene: CSO Condoles Family, Exonerates Hospital

The Civil Society Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC) has expressed condolences to the family of the late Ms Ifunanya Nwagene while urging the public to exercise caution and responsibility in discussing the circumstances surrounding her death following a snakebite.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, CBIAMEC chairman Agbonkpolor Splendour said the committee conducted a fact-finding visit to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, amid intense public concern and widespread social media allegations questioning the hospital’s response.

“Our team visited FMC Abuja to independently verify the claims circulating in the public domain,” he said. “While the death of Ms Nwagene is tragic and deeply painful, our findings did not uncover any evidence of negligence or the absence of anti-snake venom at the facility.”

According to the Committee, the visit involved an on-site inspection and engagement with the management and clinical personnel of FMC Abuja, following claims that anti-snake venom was unavailable and that medical intervention was delayed.

The Committee confirmed that the patient received immediate medical attention upon arrival. Emergency protocols were reportedly activated, including resuscitative measures, intravenous fluid administration, oxygen support, and continuous clinical monitoring.

Addressing public concerns regarding antivenom, the group stated, “Anti-snake venom was available and administered as part of the patient’s treatment, contrary to narratives circulating on social media.

Splendour emphasised that the medical explanations presented to the Committee indicated that the patient had suffered severe neurotoxic complications, which can progress rapidly and may prove fatal even with prompt medical intervention.

The Committee further explained that efforts were made to escalate the patient’s care, including arrangements for transfer to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

However, Ms Nwagene reportedly experienced sudden clinical deterioration shortly before the transfer, necessitating further emergency resuscitative measures.

Speaking during the engagement, FMC Abuja Chief Medical Director Prof. Sa’ad Ahmed described the incident as “a painful loss of a young life” and stressed that it was ironic to suggest that a hospital which conducts major procedures such as kidney transplants, open-heart surgery, in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), and laparoscopy would lack anti-snake venom.

Ahmed added, “Although the outcome was heartbreaking, the hospital ensured that all necessary treatment was provided from the moment Ms Nwagene arrived. Our medical personnel are continually trained to act professionally and follow established emergency response procedures.”

While acknowledging the grief, anger, and distrust that often follow the loss of a loved one, CBIAMEC urged the public to avoid drawing conclusions not grounded in verified facts.

“Our findings do not diminish the pain suffered by Ms Nwagene’s family, nor their right to seek clarity,” Splendour said. “However, responsible, evidence-based public engagement is crucial, especially in sensitive matters involving loss of life.”

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring public institutions, promoting transparency, and safeguarding the public interest.