PRESS STATEMENT
RE: Allegations Against Negligence in the Treatment of Four Deceased Children at UNIMED Teaching Hospital/Specialist Hospital Akure
Our attention has been drawn to a recent online news report published by an online medium accusing the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital/Specialist Hospital, Akure, Ondo State, of negligence in the tragic deaths of four children from the Adeola family.
Ordinarily, we would not have responded to the news undignified and one-sided report, which falls short of responsible journalism and misrepresents the facts. However, to maintain public trust and ensure accurate information is available, we deem it fit to address these misrepresented facts and we also urge the public to rely on verified sources for accurate information.
First and foremost, we deeply sympathize with the Adeola family during this incredibly difficult time. It is crucial to clarify the nature of medical care provided by our facility in this unfortunate situation.
The late children were brought to the Children’s Emergency Unit of UNIMEDTH Akure on September 29th, 2024, having been referred from Mother & Child Hospital, Akure. The children presented with symptoms suspected to be caused by the ingestion of pap containing an unknown poison. Tragically, their grandmother had also died days earlier after consuming the same meal.
Upon their arrival, they were immediately received and attended to by our medical team, which included consultants who had been alerted by the referring hospital. Given the severity of their condition, urgent resuscitation and critical care measures were initiated. All necessary medical interventions including resuscitation, toxicology testing, and hourly monitoring-were implemented using global best medical practices. Despite these efforts, sadly, we lost them.
However, we want to state unequivocally that all appropriate medical interventions were carried out promptly. In collaboration with the State Ministry of Health, investigations, including blood tests and toxicology screenings, were conducted. To date, the toxicology results, which are critical in determining the exact cause of the poisoning, are still pending.
We refute any claims of professional negligence and reiterate that our dedicated healthcare professionals worked tirelessly, employing all available resources and expertise to save these children.
We respectfully request that the public and the media refrain from circulating unverified information that could further compound the family’s grief and damage the reputation of our hospital and its staff.
Our commitment to providing the highest standard of medical care remains steadfast and unwavering.
‘Roseline Akeredolu
Information & Public Relations Officer
For: The Acting Medical Director
