The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital has initiated an internal investigation following a petition alleging medical negligence, with hospital authorities pledging accountability and systemic reforms.
The petitioner, legal practitioner and rights activist, Hamza N. Dantani, disclosed that he was invited to present an oral account of the incident at a high-level meeting convened by the hospital’s management.
According to him, the session was attended by the Chief Medical Director, members of the hospital’s management team, legal representatives, and stakeholders, including officials from the Public Complaints Commission.
A week ago, DAILY POST reported how the petitioner accused the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital of gross medical negligence and professional misconduct following the death of his father.
Speaking after the meeting, Dantani said the Chief Medical Director assured participants that, “a thorough investigation into the matter has been initiated” and that appropriate measures would be taken in line with established procedures.
“My objective is not to seek compensation or tarnish the image of the institution,” Dantani stated. “It is to push for systemic improvements that will prevent future occurrences.”
He emphasized the need for reforms within the hospital system, including enhanced supervision, regular monitoring, and stricter oversight of healthcare personnel, particularly in response to recurring complaints of alleged negligence.
The hospital management, he added, reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a comprehensive review of the issues raised, with a view to strengthening service delivery and restoring public confidence.
In a parallel move, the Public Complaints Commission has launched an independent investigation into the matter. Dantani confirmed that he had been invited to provide further clarifications and recommendations, noting that the commission is actively pursuing its mandate.
“The demand here is not for compensation but to ensure such incidents do not happen again and to improve healthcare delivery for the wider society,” he said.
He also called for improved welfare for healthcare workers, arguing that better working conditions, alongside stricter supervision, are essential to achieving sustainable outcomes in the health sector.
Dantani expressed appreciation to members of the public whose reactions and engagement helped draw attention to the issue.
“The public response played a crucial role in prompting the hospital to act with urgency,” he noted.
While commending the hospital’s leadership for engaging stakeholders, he urged that the assurances given must translate into concrete action.
