The Civil Society Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC) has expressed condolences to the family of late Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwagene while urging the public to exercise caution and responsibility in discussing the circumstances surrounding her death following a snake bite.
CBIAMEC made this known in a press statement signed and made available by its Chairman, Amb. Agbonkpolor Splendor, after a fact-finding visit to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, carried out amid intense public concern and widespread social media allegations questioning the hospital’s response.
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.
While describing the death of Ms. Nwagene as tragic and deeply painful, CBIAMEC said its findings did not uncover evidence to support allegations of negligence or the absence of anti-snake venom at the facility.
The Committee noted that the patient received immediate medical attention upon arrival at the hospital. Emergency protocols were reportedly activated, including resuscitative measures, intravenous fluid administration, oxygen support, and continuous clinical monitoring.
Addressing public claims regarding antivenom, CBIAMEC stated that anti-snake venom was available at FMC Abuja and was administered as part of the patient’s treatment, contrary to narratives circulating in the public space and on social media.
Medical explanations presented to the Committee showed that the patient suffered severe neurotoxic complications, which are known to progress rapidly and may prove fatal in some cases despite prompt medical intervention.
CBIAMEC further confirmed that efforts were made to escalate the patient’s care, including arrangements for transfer to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). However, the patient reportedly experienced sudden clinical deterioration shortly before the transfer, necessitating further emergency resuscitative measures.
Speaking during the engagement, the Chief Medical Director of FMC Abuja, Prof. Sa’ad Aliyu Ahmed, described the incident as a painful loss of a young life and said 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.
He added that although the outcome was heartbreaking, the hospital ensured that all necessary treatment was provided from the moment Ms. Nwagene arrived at the facility. On the conduct of hospital staff, Prof. Ahmed explained that medical personnel are constantly 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 further noted that although public skepticism toward government institutions is understandable, caution should be exercised against drawing conclusions not grounded in verified facts.
CBIAMEC stressed that its findings do not diminish the pain suffered by the family of Ms. Nwagene nor their right to seek clarity, but emphasized the need for evidence-based engagement and responsible public discourse, particularly in sensitive matters involving loss of life.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring public institutions, promoting transparency, and safeguarding the public interest.
