By Ayomide Otitoju
Two nurses have been arrested following the deaths of two young sisters, aged six and three, at the General Hospital in Zuru, allegedly due to a drug misapplication. The incident occurred on March 18 and is linked to suspected medical negligence.
The suspects are in police custody in Birnin Kebbi while authorities continue investigations to determine the precise cause of the deaths. In response, the Kebbi State Government has set up a nine-member investigative panel, led by Commissioner for Information and Culture Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed, which has commenced hearings in Zuru.
As a gesture of support, the state government donated ₦10 million to the bereaved family. Speaking at the Emir’s Palace in Zuru, Ahmed said the contribution was intended to help the family cope with their loss. “No amount of money can replace this irreparable loss, but we hope this gesture shows the family is not alone,” he added.
The Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Mohammed Sanusi Mikailu Sami, urged the family to accept the incident as an act of God and commended Governor Nasir Idris for his swift response. He also called on healthcare workers to uphold professionalism, warning that negligence in the sector is unacceptable.
During the ongoing panel hearings, medical personnel, including the Principal Medical Officer Dr Thomas Gode, Medical Officer Dr Mohammed Fakai, and the nurses on duty, have been cross-examined. The victims’ parents, led by Ibrahim Abdullahi Shuni, provided detailed accounts of the events leading to the deaths. The panel has also raised concerns over communication gaps among hospital staff, citing the need for urgent corrective measures.
