The Kano State Hospitals Management Board has suspended three health workers directly involved in the treatment of Aishatu Umar, a mother of five, following a preliminary investigation into her death after a surgical procedure at the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre, Kano.
The board confirmed on Wednesday. The action reflects rising public concern over alleged medical negligence in the case.
According to a statement by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Samira Suleiman, the suspension took effect immediately after a “preliminary and transparent investigation ordered by the Executive Secretary, Dr Mansur Mudi Nagoda, established that the incident involving the late Umar did occur at the facility.” The affected personnel have been removed from clinical duties pending further inquiry.
The matter has been formally referred to the Kano State Medical Ethical Committee for further investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with existing laws, professional guidelines, and ethical standards, the statement said.
The board emphasised its commitment to accountability, professionalism and patient safety across state health facilities.
In expressing condolences to Umar’s family, the management board said it “will not condone negligence in any form” and reaffirmed its resolve to strengthen internal monitoring and enforcement of professional standards to prevent future incidents.
The suspension follows public outcry over Umar’s death after she reportedly suffered persistent health complications following surgery performed in September 2025 at the state-owned urology centre.
Family members allege that despite repeated hospital visits over several months to complain of severe abdominal pain, she was prescribed only pain-relief medication without comprehensive tests or scans. It was only shortly before her death that scans reportedly revealed a pair of surgical scissors had been left inside her body during the procedure.
Umar, who had endured months of pain, reportedly died around 1:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, before corrective surgery could be carried out. Her family’s account has amplified concerns about patient safety and the quality of surgical care in the facility, prompting calls for a thorough and transparent inquiry.
The board’s disciplinary measures and referral to the Medical Ethical Committee are expected to lead to further actions once the full investigation is completed. Authorities have pledged to uphold professional healthcare standards and ensure that any negligence is met with appropriate sanctions.
The case has heightened debate about procedural checks during surgery and postoperative care in public health institutions, with healthcare advocates urging stronger oversight mechanisms to protect patients and restore confidence in government-run facilities.
