A wave of shock has swept through Kano State following the suspension of three medical personnel after a tragic surgical error claimed the life of a young mother.
The incident, which many described as disturbing, occurred at the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre and has raised serious concerns about patient safety.
The Kano State Hospitals Management Board confirmed that a pair of surgical scissors was left inside the body of Aishatu Umar, a mother of five, during a medical procedure.
She later died on January 11, 2026. The case has since sparked public outrage and renewed calls for accountability in Nigeria’s health system.
According to reports, Umar underwent surgery at the facility in September 2025. However, her health reportedly deteriorated shortly after the procedure.
She was said to have complained of persistent discomfort, which led to several hospital visits. After multiple tests and scans were carried out, the forgotten surgical instrument was discovered in her stomach.
Meanwhile, the case only gained wide attention after a family member shared the story online.
The post quickly spread, prompting anger, sympathy, and demands for justice across social media platforms.
Many Nigerians described the incident as a painful example of medical negligence.
Reacting to the public outcry, the state hospitals management board ordered an internal review.
In a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Samira Suleiman, the board said a preliminary investigation had confirmed the claims.
The investigation was ordered by the Executive Secretary, Dr. Mansur Mudi Nagoda.
The statement noted that surgical scissors were indeed left inside the patient’s body after the procedure.
Consequently, the board announced the immediate suspension of three medical personnel directly involved in the surgery from clinical duties.
Moreover, the matter was referred to the Kano State Medical Ethics Committee for further investigation.
The committee is expected to determine appropriate disciplinary actions in line with medical ethics and existing laws.
Therefore, more sanctions could follow as the process unfolds.
“The Board extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late Aishatu Umar and sympathizes with them over this painful loss. We reassure the public that negligence will not be condoned in any form,” the statement read.
In addition, patient safety protocols must be strictly followed to prevent avoidable deaths.
The Kano hospital negligence case has now become a reference point in discussions around healthcare reform and accountability.
Furthermore, civil society groups have called on authorities to ensure transparency throughout the investigation.
They argue that justice for the victim’s family will help restore public trust in government hospitals.
