Nigeria: Lagos hospital denies allegations of neglecting dead pregnant woman
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
A controversy has erupted surrounding the death of a pregnant woman, Kemi, who died after being allegedly denied treatment by a private hospital in Lagos, As Salam Convalescent Centre. The woman’s husband, Akinbobola Folajimi, claimed in a viral video that the hospital demanded an upfront payment of N500,000 before offering treatment, which he was unable to pay.
However, in an exclusive interview with the founder of the hospital, Rauf Salami, he denied the allegations, stating that there was no discussion about money during the brief time the family spent at the hospital. Salami explained that the woman was in critical condition upon arrival and required immediate blood transfusion and surgical attention, which the hospital was not equipped to provide.
According to Salami, the hospital advised the husband to take his wife to the Epe General Hospital, which was better equipped to handle such emergencies. He emphasized that the hospital did not demand any payment and prioritized the patient’s urgent need for specialized care.
Salami expressed frustration over the backlash, stating that he had evidence to prove that the hospital did not demand payment and that the woman was in critical condition upon arrival. He speculated that the woman may not have been receiving antenatal care at any hospital before the day she was brought to the hospital.
The incident has sparked widespread debate about the state of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the alleged neglect of patients by medical institutions. While the hospital has denied the allegations, the woman’s husband and many sympathizers have called for reforms to hold medical institutions accountable for such alleged neglect.
The controversy highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s healthcare system, as well as the importance of ensuring that patients receive timely and adequate medical attention, regardless of their financial situation.
