The management of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) has strongly rejected allegations of systemic negligence and administrative failure following the death of an infant, describing the claims circulating online as unverified and misleading.
In a statement signed by Hadiza Malumfashi Shehu, Executive Assistant to the Chief Medical Director, the hospital extended its condolences to the bereaved family, acknowledging the profound distress caused by the loss of a child.
“Every life entrusted to our care is treated with the utmost seriousness, compassion, and professional responsibility,” the statement read.
However, the hospital took issue with what it called an attempt to portray the facility as “a mortuary for paediatrics and infants”, warning that such narratives could provoke unnecessary panic and erode public trust in the healthcare system.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the infant was brought to the hospital in critical condition, with complications linked to severe malaria and convulsions prior to arrival. Medical staff reportedly initiated emergency interventions immediately, following standard protocols.
“Contrary to online claims, our emergency response team acted promptly and professionally throughout,” the hospital said, adding that any movement of the patient within the facility was done solely to access specialised care and equipment.
UATH stressed that unfavourable outcomes can occur in emergency and critical care despite best efforts, and that concluding negligence without a thorough professional investigation is inaccurate and unfair.
The hospital further clarified that:
· It remains a fully functional tertiary institution serving thousands daily
· Claims of basic medical supply shortages or administrative collapse are exaggerated
· Established protocols for paediatric emergency care and patient monitoring are in place
· Internal reviews and clinical audits are standard practice following critical incidents
Management urged the public and media practitioners to avoid sensationalism, and to allow due process, professional review mechanisms, and medical ethics to guide discourse on sensitive healthcare matters.
The University of Abuja Teaching Hospital reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in delivering quality healthcare to Nigerians.