RE: RESPONSE TO MISLEADING REPORTS REGARDING ALLEGED NEGLIGENCE AT UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA TEACHING HOSPITAL (UATH), GWAGWALADA
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Download PDFThe attention of management has been drawn to a publication circulating on social media and online platforms, particularly on Nairaland, alleging systemic negligence and administrative failure at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), Gwagwalada, following the unfortunate death of an infant.
First and foremost, we extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family over this painful loss. The death of any patient, especially a child, is heartbreaking and every life entrusted to our care is treated with utmost seriousness, compassion, and professional responsibility.
However, management strongly rejects attempts to portray the hospital as a "mortuary for paediatrics and infants" or to spread unverified narratives capable of creating unnecessary panic, fear, and mistrust in the healthcare system.
Preliminary Findings
Preliminary findings indicate that the infant was brought to the hospital in a critical condition following complications reportedly linked to severe malaria and convulsions prior to arrival at the facility. Upon presentation, medical personnel on duty immediately commenced emergency intervention in line with standard medical protocols to stabilize the patient.
Contrary to claims circulating online, the hospital's emergency response team acted promptly and professionally throughout the management process. Clinical decisions, including patient transfer within the facility, were made strictly in the interest of improving access to specialized care and equipment required for the patient's condition.
Management Clarifications
- UATH remains a fully functional tertiary healthcare institution serving thousands of Nigerians daily with dedication and professionalism.
- Claims suggesting absence of basic medical supplies or total administrative collapse are exaggerated and misleading.
- The hospital maintains established protocols for emergency pediatric care, patient monitoring, and escalation procedures.
- Internal reviews and appropriate clinical audits are standard practice in situations involving critical incidents.
It is important to note that emergency and critical care medicine can involve highly complex situations where outcomes may unfortunately remain unfavorable despite best medical efforts. It is therefore inaccurate and unfair to reduce such situations to allegations of negligence without a thorough professional investigation.
Commitment to Transparency
We urge members of the public and media practitioners to avoid sensationalism and allow due process, professional review mechanisms, and medical ethics to guide public discourse on sensitive healthcare matters.
The University of Abuja Teaching Hospital remains committed to transparency, accountability, continuous improvement, and the delivery of quality healthcare services to Nigerians.
For the record: UATH maintains established protocols for emergency pediatric care, patient monitoring, and escalation procedures. Internal reviews and appropriate clinical audits are standard practice in situations involving critical incidents.
Signed:
Hadiza Malumfashi Shehu
Executive Assistant to the Chief Medical Director
