The Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Abuja, has debunked reports circulating on social media that anti-snake venom was unavailable in its facility during the treatment of the late fast-rising musician Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwagene, who died following a snake bite on Saturday.
In a statement on Sunday in Abuja, the Head of Clinical Services in the hospital, Dr. Bioku Muftau, explained that the hospital’s medical team responded promptly and professionally, administering emergency care, including resuscitation, intravenous fluids, intranasal oxygen, and polyvalent snake anti-venom.
He stated that Ms. Nwagene died as a result of severe neurotoxic complications arising from the snake bite she sustained on January 31, 2026.
Muftau, while condoling the bereaved family, described the loss as tragic and painful, noting that every necessary medical step was taken immediately upon the patient’s arrival at the hospital.
Muftau noted that following a rapid clinical assessment, it became evident that the victim had already developed severe neurotoxic effects from the snake bite.
He said, “Our medical staff provided immediate and appropriate treatment upon her arrival. Anti-snake venom was administered, and all standard emergency protocols were followed. Plans were made to transfer her to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for advanced care, but her condition reportedly deteriorated suddenly moments before the transfer”.
“Despite intensive resuscitation efforts, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the medical team was unable to revive her.“FMC Abuja firmly rejected allegations of negligence, inadequate response, or non-availability of anti-venom, describing such claims as unfounded and misleading”.
“We stand by the quality of care delivered by our team. The narrative suggesting that anti-snake venom was unavailable or that the response was inadequate does not reflect what actually transpired”, he added.
Muftau urged members of the public to rely on verified, credible sources of information rather than unconfirmed social media reports, stressing its commitment to transparency, integrity, and excellence in patient care.
He observed that the hospital remains open to further engagement and inquiries as it continues to uphold professional medical standards and patient safety.