The Lagos state government has launched an immediate and full-scale investigation into the tragic and avoidable death of Mrs. Folajimi, a pregnant woman who died in Lakowe, Ibeju-Lekki in the State, after being allegedly denied emergency care at a private healthcare facility due to her inability to pay an upfront deposit.
The incident, which has sparked public outrage, has exposed critical failures in emergency care delivery and potential breaches of medical ethics by both traditional birth attendants and the private hospital involved. The state government has vowed to ensure that everyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, over the weekend, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and offered condolences to the bereaved family.
“No woman should die giving life. This death was preventable, and we will ensure that justice is served,” Abayomi vowed.
A high-level investigative panel—comprising officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA)—has been constituted to thoroughly examine all parties involved. The panel’s mandate includes verifying licenses and accreditation, assessing compliance with emergency protocols, and identifying any form of malpractice, negligence, or unprofessional conduct.
Preliminary findings indicated troubling lapses in care and regulatory compliance. The panel’s report is expected shortly, and the government has assured the public that swift and decisive action will follow. Any facility or practitioner found operating illegally or violating emergency care obligations will face prosecution and possible closure.
The Lagos state government was intensifying enforcement of its healthcare regulations, particularly targeting unlicensed facilities and traditional birth attendants operating beyond their scope. The public is urged to report any facility that is not registered with HEFAMAA or fails to provide emergency services.
The commissioner emphasised that it was both unethical and unlawful for any health facility, public or private, to deny life-saving care in emergencies, adding that “Such conduct is inexcusable and directly contradicts our mission to safeguard the lives of Lagos residents. We will not tolerate it.”
The Lagos state government is also calling on community leaders, faith-based organizations, and professional bodies to join in the fight against maternal mortality. Protecting women during childbirth is a collective responsibility.
“This tragedy will not be swept under the rug. The Lagos state government stands firmly with the Folajimi family and all residents of the state demanding accountability. The ongoing investigation will be transparent, and justice will be non-negotiable,” Prof. Abayomi assured.
