The Lagos State Government has launched a full-scale investigation into the heartbreaking death of Mrs. Folajimi, a pregnant woman who was reportedly denied medical care at a private hospital in Lakowe, Ibeju-Lekki, for failing to pay a deposit during labour.
According to reports, the woman was turned away from the healthcare facility at a critical moment, ultimately costing her life, and that of her unborn child.
Describing the incident as both “tragic and shocking,” the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, announced on Saturday in Ikeja that the government is committed to holding all responsible parties accountable. He added that justice will be served for the late Mrs. Folajimi and her grieving family.
“We are committed to seeking justice and ensuring such a tragedy never happens again,” Abayomi said.
Urgent Investigation Underway
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), has formed a special panel to probe potential negligence and breaches in medical conduct.
Initial findings indicate that both a traditional birth attendant and a private hospital may have played roles in the unfortunate outcome. Interviews with key individuals, including hospital staff and witnesses, are already underway.
The investigation will assess:
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Whether the facilities involved were properly registered with HEFAMAA.
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If they followed standard emergency protocols.
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Whether medical negligence or professional misconduct occurred.
“Every healthcare facility must operate within the bounds of HEFAMAA regulations, including full accreditation and adherence to emergency response standards,” Abayomi warned.
Hospital Rejection Due to No Deposit Sparks Public Outrage
The news has sparked intense public outrage, with many calling out the dangerous practice of rejecting patients in emergency situations over financial constraints.
Mrs. Folajimi’s death has highlighted ongoing concerns about access to emergency maternal care, especially in rural and underserved areas of Lagos State.
Government Calls for Community Action & Oversight
Prof. Abayomi appealed to community leaders, religious bodies, and healthcare professionals to collaborate in raising awareness about maternal and child health rights and to speak out against malpractice and negligence in the health sector.
“We urge citizens to report any facility that is not properly registered or is operating beyond its licensed capacity,” he said.
The Commissioner assured that any facility or individual found culpable will face the full weight of the law, reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance stance on maternal deaths caused by negligence.
