Two nurses have been taken into custody following the death of two young sisters at the General Hospital in Zuru, Kebbi State, after they were allegedly administered incorrect injections during treatment.
The victims, aged six and three, reportedly died on March 18 under circumstances that have since sparked concern within the community.
The suspects are currently being held by the police in Birnin Kebbi as investigations continue to unravel the precise cause of the incident.
In response to the development, the Kebbi State Government constituted a nine-member panel of inquiry to probe the matter. The panel, chaired by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed, has commenced sittings in Zuru.
During the proceedings, key hospital personnel, including the Principal Medical Officer, Dr Thomas Gode, and Medical Officer, Dr Mohammed Fakai, alongside nurses on duty at the time, appeared before the panel. The father of the deceased, Ibrahim Abdullahi Shuni, as well as other family members, also gave testimonies.
Findings from the ongoing hearings indicated lapses in communication among medical staff, which may have contributed to the unfortunate deaths, underscoring the need for improved coordination and stricter adherence to medical protocols.
Meanwhile, the state government has donated N10 million to the bereaved family as part of efforts to cushion the impact of the loss.
Speaking during a visit to the Emir’s Palace in Zuru, Ahmed said the gesture was aimed at supporting the family through their grief.
“No amount of money can compensate for the lives lost, but this is to assure the family that the government stands with them in this difficult time,” he said.
The Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Mohammed Sanusi Mikailu Sami, urged the family to remain steadfast, describing the incident as an act of destiny.
He also charged healthcare workers to uphold professionalism at all times, warning against negligence that could endanger lives.
Responding on behalf of the family, counsel to the victims, Garba Shehu, commended the government for its swift intervention and commitment to ensuring justice through a thorough investigation.