Snakebite: FCTA Assures Availability Of Anti-venom, Tasks Hospitals On Emergency Protocol

In the wake of public fury over the death of social media influencer Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, a.k.a Nanya, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a firm assurance that life-saving antivenom was fully stocked and accessible across its health facilities, while simultaneously warning negligent hospitals of sanctions.

The mandate secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, said that Nanya’s death must serve as a pivotal moment for emergency preparedness.

“The loss of a promising young life is deeply painful and distressing. I share in the family’s grief and reaffirm that such medically preventable deaths must be taken seriously,” she said.

Her comments followed allegations that the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jabi lacked antivenom when Nwangene was rushed there after a snakebite.

The hospital has denied this, claiming the influencer was brought in long after the bite and was already exhibiting advanced, often fatal, neurotoxic symptoms.

Fasawe, however, emphasised that the FCTA’s own supplies wsre secure. “Different forms and types of anti-snake venom are widely available across FCTA-owned hospitals and public health facilities,” she said.

She also explained that stocks were guided by veterinary data on local snake species and are kept under strict quality control.

The mandate secretary further issued a stark warning to all medical facilities in the territory, saying, “All healthcare facilities, public and private, must adhere strictly to approved clinical protocols. Monitoring and enforcement will be intensified, and facilities found negligent will face sanctions.”

She described snakebites as a preventable public health emergency in the FCT, where venomous species like cobras and vipers are present.

She provided clear directives for residents, urging calm and immediate hospital transport after a bite, and warning against harmful first-aid myths like cutting the wound or applying tourniquets.

“Prompt treatment is critical. While antivenom is most effective when administered early, its use does not guarantee recovery, particularly where neurotoxic symptoms have already manifested, underscoring the need for rapid evacuation,” she said.

To improve survival chances, the mandate secretary highlighted new investments, including 12 recently deployed ambulances.

“The FCTA remains resolute in strengthening emergency systems, enforcing quality healthcare standards, and protecting the lives of all residents,” she said.

“For emergencies, residents should contact FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services Numbers – 090157892931, 090157892932,” she said.