A media personality, Beady Nnanna, has accused a Lagos-based hospital of medical negligence following the death of her 44-year-old sister, Blessing Okolie, after a fibroid surgery.
According to Nnanna, her sister underwent a myomectomy on March 28, 2026, at a private hospital in Abule Egba. She claimed the facility appeared substandard from the outset but said Okolie insisted on being treated there based on recommendations.
Although the surgery was initially described as successful, Nnanna said complications soon developed. Within days, Okolie began experiencing severe abdominal pain and swelling. Despite repeated requests for further examination, including a scan, she alleged that the hospital dismissed concerns and delayed proper diagnosis.
A scan eventually conducted at another facility reportedly revealed a metal object in Okolie’s abdomen. Nnanna believes it was a pair of scissors left behind during surgery. The patient was subsequently taken back for a second operation, but her condition continued to deteriorate.
Nnanna further alleged poor post-operative care, including lack of adequate equipment, delayed referrals, and a critical incident involving power failure during oxygen support. She said she eventually moved her sister to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, where she later died despite efforts to save her.
The family has reported the case to the authorities and is demanding justice, including a full investigation and possible closure of the hospital.
In response, the Medical Director of the facility, Dr. Abiodun Ojifinni, confirmed that Okolie underwent fibroid surgery but stated that complications arose days later, including sepsis. He denied definitive claims of negligence and urged caution, emphasizing that the exact cause of death would be determined through an ongoing autopsy and coroner’s inquest.
Ojifinni noted that the patient was referred to LASUTH at the family’s request and maintained that conclusions should await the official medical findings.
The case has sparked concern over patient safety and standards of care in private healthcare facilities, with the outcome of the autopsy expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding Okolie’s death.
