Two nurses have been taken into custody following the deaths of two young sisters, aged six and three, reportedly linked to a suspected medical error at the General Hospital in Zuru, Kebbi State.
The victims passed away on March 18 under circumstances that authorities say may involve negligence during treatment.
The arrested nurses are currently in police custody in Birnin Kebbi as investigations continue to determine the exact cause of the tragic incident.
In response, the Kebbi State Government set up a nine-member investigative panel, chaired by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed.
The panel has begun hearings in Zuru, gathering evidence from medical personnel and witnesses.
As part of support measures, the state government donated N10 million to the bereaved family. Speaking at the Emir’s Palace in Zuru, Ahmed described the contribution as a gesture to help the family cope with their loss.
“No amount of money can replace these lives, but we hope this shows the family that they are not alone,” he said.
The Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Mohammed Sanusi Mikailu Sami, called on the family to accept the tragedy as an act of God, while praising Governor Nasir Idris for his swift response.
He also warned healthcare workers against negligence, stressing the importance of ongoing professional training.
“Negligence that endangers lives is completely unacceptable,” the Emir said.
Representing the family, Barrister Garba Shehu expressed gratitude for the support and emphasised the importance of a thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.
“Though deeply pained, we take solace in the belief that no one dies before their appointed time,” he said.
During the panel’s proceedings, hospital staff including the Principal Medical Officer, Dr. Thomas Gode, Medical Officer Dr. Mohammed Fakai, and nurses on duty at the time have provided testimony.
The parents of the deceased, led by their father Ibrahim Abdullahi Shuni, also recounted the events leading to their daughters’ deaths.
The panel has identified communication gaps among hospital personnel as a critical factor that requires urgent attention to prevent similar incidents in the future.
