The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly’s Health Committee has directed the Ministry of Health and the State Hospitals Management Board to discipline any medical personnel responsible for the death of a pregnant woman and her newborn at Ikot Ekpene General Hospital.
Thirty-two-year-old Mrs. Ndiana Sunday Amos and her baby died last weekend, reportedly due to negligence by hospital staff. The incident sparked public outrage after Mrs. Amos’ sister, Ndifreke Amos, shared a video claiming the hospital left her sister unattended for three hours.
Hon. Moses Essien, Chairman of the Health Committee and representative of Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, demanded accountability during a meeting with the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, and other top officials on September 4, 2025.
He described the deaths as avoidable and caused by professional lapses, emphasizing that the Assembly will ensure justice is served.
The committee’s findings revealed that the first doctor diagnosed suspected placenta previa, but a second opinion was unavailable. A third doctor arrived two hours late, and the consultant obstetrician on duty was never informed of the emergency.
By the time surgery was performed, the baby had already died, and although the mother initially survived the operation, she later passed away due to severe bleeding.
Hon. Essien stressed that the Commissioner for Health must take responsibility as head of the Ministry, questioning why Ikot Ekpene General Hospital remains in poor condition despite a N500 million allocation for its rehabilitation in the 2025 state budget.
Essential services such as electricity, water, and adequate staffing are still lacking, undermining the government’s health plans.
Dr. Ekem John described the deaths as unfortunate but defended the competence of the medical team. He confirmed that Governor Umo Eno has established a 14-member investigative panel to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The panel has been tasked with reviewing clinical procedures, interviewing staff, and assessing the hospital’s readiness in terms of manpower and equipment. Dr. John assured that no one would be shielded from accountability.
The panel, chaired by Prof. Israel Jeremiah of Niger Delta University, will examine whether negligence, breach of protocol, or systemic failures led to the deaths and is expected to submit its findings within 10 days.
Dr. John urged members to carry out their duties without fear or favor, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare and preventing similar tragedies. Meanwhile, the victim’s sister shared posts on social media expressing grief and calling for justice.
