The family of a woman who died after childbirth at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) has accused the facility of medical negligence and a critical lack of basic life-saving equipment, including an oxygen machine, which they claimed led to her death.
Amina Muhammad Aliyu Gumel, a young mother, was admitted last Friday at the hospital after she took herself in when she began experiencing complications.
Her condition, according to her mother, Bilkisu Mukhtar, worsened soon after a caesarean section (CS) was performed, but the hospital allegedly failed to respond adequately to her deteriorating health.
Speaking to Newsmen on Monday, Bilkisu described the ordeal as a nightmare. She said the CS was delayed initially because doctors insisted blood had to be available in case it was needed during or after the procedure.
Eventually, the operation was carried out, but Amina’s condition reportedly became critical post-surgery.
“She was struggling to breathe. It was obvious she needed urgent help, but the doctors didn’t act swiftly,” the mother said.
“They said she didn’t need blood, but later changed their minds. It was all inconsistent and unprofessional.”
According to the family, Amina was placed on oxygen with a manual machine and was later connected to an oxygen concentrator but there was no electricity to power the device.
“We watched her struggle to breathe, unable to do anything. We had to resort to using a rechargeable fan because of the heat and the lack of oxygen support. Nothing worked,” Bilkisu lamented.
The family said they pleaded with the hospital to transfer Amina to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), but their request was denied. Instead, she was moved to the labour room—despite having already given birth.
“We didn’t understand the decision. What would she be doing in the labour room after delivering her baby?” her mother said. “She died shortly after, yesterday, Sunday.”
Devastated by the incident, the family vowed not to remain silent, saying they want to raise awareness about what they described as a failing healthcare system that puts lives at risk.
When contacted, AKTH Chief Information Officer, Hauwa’u Inuwa Dutse, initially told Newsmen that she needed some time to find out the situation, after which the reporter later called back.
She said the file of the deceased is already been looked into by the management, and an investigation is underway to verify the claims.
‘’The hospital is investigating the matter and in due course will tell the public its finding.
“Patient relatives do not have the authority to dictate medical procedures or movements within the hospital. However, we are taking the allegations seriously,’’ Hauwa explained.
“I have asked for a briefing from the medical team. They are reviewing the patient’s file and will provide details to the public,” she said.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for improved hospital management, better emergency response systems, and adequate medical equipment in public health institutions
