Lagos Govt Probes Maternal Death in Ibeju-Lekki, Vows Justice for Victim’s Family

The Lagos State Government has launched a full-scale investigation into the tragic death of a pregnant woman, Mrs. Folajimi, in the Lakowe area of Ibeju-Lekki, following reports that she was denied urgent medical care due to an inability to pay a deposit.

Epe Insights reports that the incident, which has sparked public outrage, allegedly involved a traditional birth attendant and a private healthcare facility, both of whom are now under scrutiny.

In a statement issued on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the health sector leadership, the government expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, describing the incident as “a tragic and unacceptable loss.”

“No one should die while bringing life into the world,” the statement read.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), has set up a panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death. Preliminary findings suggest multiple parties may have breached medical protocols, with both individuals and facilities now undergoing questioning.

Key areas under investigation include: registration status of the healthcare providers and facilities involved, compliance with scopes of practice approved by HEFAMAA, adherence to emergency medical care protocols and identification of possible negligence or ethical violations

The government emphasized that any facility found culpable will face strict legal consequences, reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on substandard or unethical medical practices.

“No healthcare facility, whether public or private, is allowed to deny emergency care—especially in life-threatening situations,” the statement added. “Such actions are a gross violation of medical ethics and regulatory obligations and will be met with full sanctions.”

Officials also reiterated the ongoing efforts to regulate nursing homes and Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) as part of a wider strategy to strengthen primary healthcare delivery in Lagos.

The public is encouraged to report any unregistered or non-compliant healthcare facilities to HEFAMAA. The state government has intensified its monitoring of health establishments to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

The government called on community leaders, religious groups, and healthcare workers to join forces in promoting safe maternal and child health practices, particularly at the grassroots level.

As the investigation progresses, the Lagos State Government pledged to ensure justice is served in the case of Mrs. Folajimi and to take all necessary steps to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.

“We stand with the Folajimi family in this difficult time, and we are committed to ensuring accountability and safeguarding the lives of mothers across the state,” the statement concluded.