Posted on: Sat 26-04-2025

In a tragic turn of events, Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has launched a fierce crackdown on unregistered hospitals in Abuja following the heartbreaking death of Chekwube Chinagorom.  

The pregnant woman passed away after undergoing a caesarean section at Afolmi Hospital, an unlicensed facility in Durumi, on April 25, 2025.

Investigations revealed that Afolmi Hospital was operating illegally, with only a Junior Community Health Extension Worker on duty and no qualified staff present.  

The surgeon, Murtala Jumma, who performed the operation, could not be reached, leading to a police investigation. This devastating incident has sparked outrage and prompted Wike to enforce strict measures, ensuring that anyone operating or working in an unregistered health facility will face arrest and prosecution.

This tragedy underscores a broader issue in Nigeria, where access to proper healthcare remains a critical challenge. According to a 2023 WHO report, 70% of maternal deaths in the country are linked to inadequate healthcare access.  

Meanwhile, the FCT’s free health insurance scheme for pregnant women, which provides access to designated hospitals for safe deliveries, could have been a lifesaver if utilized. Wike’s directive aims to prevent such incidents, but it raises the question—what more can be done to protect vulnerable mothers?

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