The independent and investigative panel, appointed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesome Wike, to examine the death of 33-year-old ‘one chance’ victim, Ms. Greatness Olorunfemi, has revealed that she was brought in dead to Maitaima District Hospital, Abuja, contrary to assertions on social media.
The panel also clarified that the hospital did not insist on a police report before attending to Olorunfemi. On September 26, Olorunfemi was reportedly stabbed and ejected from a moving vehicle along the Maitama-Kubwa highway. Subsequently, on October 4, Wike constituted a nine-member panel comprising representatives from various medical associations and regulatory bodies to investigate the incident.
The chairman of the panel, Prof Muhammad Muhammad, announced during the public release of the investigative report that Ms. Olorunfemi was indeed brought in dead, with no evidence of bleeding before or after arrival at the hospital. The panel’s three main objectives were to determine if she was brought in alive or dead, investigate the circumstances leading to her death, and make recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
The panel found that the handling of Olorunfemi’s body at the hospital fell below ethical standards due to overwhelming conditions. Muhammad highlighted recommendations for infrastructure improvement, staffing, training, and incentives for healthcare personnel. Additionally, the panel suggested a review of coroner laws to facilitate early autopsies.
Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of Health Services & Environment Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory, acknowledged that Olorunfemi’s death, stemming from insecurity in the FCT, could have been prevented. She emphasized the commitment of the FCT Minister to enhancing security and ensuring safe transportation for commuters. Dr. Fasawe also apologized to Olorunfemi’s family for the inadequate treatment of her body and expressed hope for further police investigations into the incident.