John Okoro
Dr. Saad Ahmed, the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jabi, Abuja, clarified the events leading to the tragic demise of 26-year-old musician Ifunanya Nwangene, widely known as Nanyah. The rising star succumbed to a cobra bite at her residence on February 3.
Speaking at the Senate Committee on Health’s budget defense session, Ahmed emphasized that delayed medical intervention hindered effective treatment, despite the hospital administering anti-snake venom promptly.
Addressing widespread misinformation online, Ahmed refuted claims that Nwangene was denied anti-venom upon arrival.
“She arrived at our facility more than two hours post-bite, already exhibiting systemic envenomation symptoms,” he explained.
“Contrary to online speculation, we administered two doses of anti-venom—first intravenously, followed by a secondary dose. However, the cobra’s potent neurotoxins had already circulated.”
The doctor highlighted the narrow window for effective treatment, stating, “Anti-venom yields optimal results when administered within the first 15 minutes. Time plays a decisive role.”
Public outcry followed Nwangene’s passing, with critics questioning Nigeria’s emergency healthcare response. Ahmed defended the hospital’s preparedness:
“FMC Abuja maintains anti-venom stockpiles and operates a functional emergency unit. Our team responded professionally to this critical case.”
He urged systemic reforms, prompting the Senate to advocate for an integrated emergency network between public and private healthcare providers across the FCT and state governments.
Nwangene’s death has reignited discussions about improving medical emergency protocols nationwide.
David Ochayi
