Agbakoba Calls for Emergency Overhaul of Nigeria’s Health Regulatory System Amid Medical Negligence Concerns

Senior Advocate of Nigeria and medical malpractice specialist, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, has raised alarm over what he describes as a deepening medical negligence crisis in Nigeria, calling for an urgent and comprehensive overhaul of the country’s health regulatory framework.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, Agbakoba said recurring incidents of preventable deaths in Nigerian hospitals point to systemic failures in regulation, oversight, and accountability within the health sector. 

He spoke against the backdrop of the recent death of Nkanu Nnamdi, one of the twin sons of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege—an incident that has reignited public debate about patient safety in Nigeria.

Agbakoba, who said he has focused on medical malpractice litigation for over 20 years and has handled more than 50 such cases, described the incident as emblematic of wider institutional problems. According to him, the reported administration of Propofol—a powerful anaesthetic known to carry risks of cardio-respiratory failure if improperly dosed—underscores concerns about competence and adherence to clinical standards, even in hospitals regarded as reputable.

I am not shocked that such a simple procedure could end so tragically,” Agbakoba said, adding that while investigations are ongoing, there appears to be a strong possibility of overdose. He stressed, however, that all findings must be established through an independent and transparent inquiry.

He commended the Lagos State Government for pledging to investigate the incident and acknowledged the hospital involved, Euracare, for agreeing to cooperate. 

Nevertheless, he warned that investigations into medical negligence in Nigeria are often compromised, alleging that medical records are sometimes altered to evade responsibility.

Drawing from personal experience, Agbakoba said he was once misdiagnosed in a manner that could have had serious consequences, while his brother narrowly survived surgery allegedly performed by a doctor who falsely presented himself as a qualified surgeon. 

He cited several other cases his firm has encountered, including patients who died following delayed medical responses, negligent surgical procedures, and medication errors. He noted that his practice is currently handling 25 active medical negligence cases, with over 20 additional complaints under review.

“These are not isolated incidents,” he said. 

“They are symptoms of a systemic collapse.”

Agbakoba traced the roots of the problem to what he described as the failure of Nigeria’s legal and regulatory health framework. 

He recalled that in earlier decades, the healthcare system operated under a strong supervisory structure, with Chief MedicalOfficers and Health Inspectors responsible for oversight, compliance, and accountability. According to him, that structure has since been dismantled, leaving a regulatory vacuum.

He argued that the current framework under the National Health Act and corresponding state laws has led to excessive centralisation under the Federal Ministry of Health, weakening state-level oversight. As a result, he said, many health facilities now operate with “alarming impunity,” without routine inspections, mandatory reporting, or effective enforcement of standards.

Agbakoba also criticised what he described as a governance failure in which Ministers and Commissioners of Health combine policy-making with regulatory enforcement roles.

 He insisted that these functions must be clearly separated to ensure accountability.“

The Chimamanda case has brought renewed attention to this crisis, but it represents only the visible tip of a much larger problem affecting countless Nigerian families,

” he said.

To address the situation, Agbakoba called for immediate reforms, including the establishment of an independent Health Regulatory Authority, the reinstatement of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer at federal and state levels, mandatory registration and inspection of health facilities, independent investigative mechanisms with powers to preserve medical records, and comprehensive legislative reform of Nigeria’s health laws.

He concluded by describing the state of medical care in Nigeria as a national emergency.

“We cannot continue to lose precious lives to preventable medical errors while our regulatory framework remains in shambles,” Agbakoba said.

 “The time for decisive legislative and executive action is long overdue.”

Medical Negligence Crisis Sparks Renewed Calls for Overhaul of Nigeria’s Health Regulatory system

Concerns over medical negligence in Nigeria have intensified following the reported death of Nkanu Nnamdi, one of the twin sons of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, during a medical procedure in Lagos.

 The incident has reignited national debate about patient safety, regulatory failure, and accountability within the country’s healthcare system.

A legal practitioner specialising in medical malpractice, with over 20 years’ experience and involvement in more than 50 negligence cases, described the incident as part of a disturbing and recurring pattern of preventable deaths in Nigerian hospitals. 

According to the lawyer, the circumstances surrounding the case raise serious red flags, particularly the reported administration of propofol, a sedative known to carry significant risks if not carefully managed.

Propofol requires exceptional care due to its potential to cause cardio-respiratory failure,” the lawyer said. “

An overdose can be fatal, and there appears to be a strong possibility of overdose in this case. Sadly, I am not shocked that a procedure considered routine has ended so tragically, even in a reputed hospital.”

The Lagos State Government has announced an investigation into the incident, while the hospital involved, Euracare, has reportedly pledged its cooperation. 

The lawyer welcomed these steps but cautioned that past experience shows investigations are often compromised.

“Such probes must be genuinely independent and transparent,” he said. “I have personally witnessed cases where medical records were altered to avoid culpability.”

Drawing from personal experience, the lawyer recounted being misdiagnosed for a serious ailment and narrowly avoiding tragedy when his brother underwent surgery performed by a doctor who falsely presented himself as a qualified surgeon. He also cited numerous other cases handled by his practice, including a woman who lost both kidneys following negligent surgery, a mother who died from haemorrhagic shock after delayed medical response during childbirth, a 12-year-old whose intestine allegedly went missing during treatment, and an elderly woman who died after being mistakenly administered a paralysing injection.

These are not isolated incidents,” he stressed. “They are symptoms of a systemic collapse. My firm currently has over 20 complaints under review and is actively handling 25 medical negligence cases.”

According to the lawyer, the root of the crisis lies in the collapse of Nigeria’s health regulatory framework. 

He argued that earlier systems of oversight—when Chief Medical Officers and Health Inspectors routinely supervised hospitals and enforced standards—have been dismantled. He noted that the last person to hold the position of Chief Medical Officer of Nigeria was Dr. Samuel Layinka Manuwa.

Under the current National Health Act and state health laws, he said, regulatory authority has become overcentralised at the federal level, leaving states lax in enforcement. This, he argued, has allowed medical practitioners and facilities to operate with “alarming impunity,” with no routine inspections, reporting obligations, or effective sanctions.

He further criticised what he described as a governance failure, where Ministers and Commissioners of Health combine policy-making with regulatory enforcement. “

There must be a clear separation of roles,” he said. “Policy formulation should be distinct from enforcement. Independent regulators must be empowered to inspect, investigate, and hold practitioners accountable.”

The lawyer called for urgent, wide-ranging reforms, including the establishment of an independent Health Regulatory Authority, the reinstatement of the Office of Chief Medical Officer at federal and state levels, mandatory registration and inspection of all health facilities, and independent investigative mechanisms with powers to secure medical records.

He also urged comprehensive legislative reform to bring Nigeria’s health laws in line with modern standards of care and patient protection.

While the case involving the Adichie family has drawn widespread attention, the lawyer warned that it represents only “the visible tip of a much larger crisis.”

“We cannot continue to lose precious lives to preventable medical errors,” he said. “This is a national emergency that demands immediate legislative and executive action

Amos Ado Congratulates Olushola Ogunnowo on Honorary Doctorate Award

Renowned sports administrator and football development advocate, Amos Ado, has extended warm congratulations to Olushola Ogunnowo following his conferment with an honorary Doctorate Degree by the African Performance Leadership Academy (APLA), an affiliate of the Georgia-based KIMT University, USA.

Ogunnowo was awarded the Doctor of Sports Development and Management (D.SDM. Honoris Causa) in recognition of his exceptional contributions to public service and his outstanding role in the growth and development of grassroots football across Nigeria. The prestigious honour underscores years of dedicated service to football administration, talent development, and institutional strengthening within the Nigerian football ecosystem.

In his congratulatory message, Amos Ado described the award as well-deserved, noting that Ogunnowo’s commitment to grassroots football and league development has continued to yield positive impacts nationwide.

“This honour is a fitting recognition of Olushola Ogunnowo’s tireless efforts, professionalism, and passion for football development. His work at the grassroots level and within the league structure has helped reposition the game and provide opportunities for young talents,” Ado stated.

Ado further emphasized that the recognition serves not only as a personal milestone for Ogunnowo but also as encouragement for administrators who remain committed to sustainable sports development in Nigeria.

As a leading figure in the Nigerian Nationwide League One (NLO), Ogunnowo has played a pivotal role in strengthening the league’s operations, expanding participation, and promoting transparency and professionalism. Reacting to the honour, Ogunnowo expressed deep gratitude to the awarding institution and stakeholders within the Nigerian football community.

“I embrace this recognition with profound appreciation and remain committed to my contributions to developing football from the grassroots to the highest levels,” Ogunnowo said.

“This accolade will fuel my determination to continually strive for excellence.”

He added that the honour further motivates him to elevate the Nigerian League One (NLO) brand, enhance youth development frameworks, and contribute meaningfully to national sports policy and administration.

Meanwhile, in pursuit of advanced academic excellence, Ogunnowo is also on the verge of completing his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sports Management at Lagos State University (LASU)—a testament to his blend of practical experience and scholarly engagement in sports administration.

The honorary doctorate has been widely celebrated within sports circles, with many stakeholders describing it as a landmark achievement that reflects Ogunnowo’s enduring legacy in Nigerian football development and his unwavering commitment to excellence, education, and service.

Oriolowo Backs ADC Governorship Candidate Calls For Party Unity

Senator representing Osun West Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly and a governorship aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator Adelere Oriolowo, has thrown his weight behind the party’s governorship candidate, Rtd. Hon. Najeem salaam describing his emergence as democratic and transparent.

Oriolowo said Salaam was not imposed on the party, stressing that his candidacy was the outcome of a collective decision by party leaders aimed at avoiding past mistakes where candidates were perceived to have been forced on members.

According to him, an election was conducted among 15 leaders of the party, after which Salam was selected as the ADC governorship candidate.

“We all agreed that whatever decision the party leaders reached, we would abide by it. 

This was done to prevent a repeat of what happened in the past, where a candidate was seen as being imposed on the people,” Oriolowo said.

The former lawmaker noted that immediately after the selection, he met with his supporters, particularly those from his hometown of Iwo, who had expected the governorship ticket to come from the area, to explain the party’s position.

“I told them that this is what the party wants and that we must stand by the wish of the party. What matters most is the ideology of the ADC,” he added.

Oriolowo reaffirmed his full support for Salaam and called on the people of Osun State to turn out in large numbers to vote for the ADC candidate.

He described the ADC as the only political party capable of delivering the true dividends of democracy to the people of Osun State

Taye Currency Pens Nigerian Fuji Lovers, Appreciates Fans, Calls for Stronger Bond in 2026

Story By-Tope Eluyefa 

Popular Fuji music maestro, Taye Akande Adebisi, fondly known as Taye Currency, has penned a heartfelt message to Fuji music lovers across Nigeria and beyond, expressing deep appreciation for the overwhelming love, loyalty and support he enjoyed from fans throughout the past year.

In the goodwill message released at the dawn of the new year, the Ibadan-born Fuji icon described the support from his fans as the backbone of his sustained relevance and success in the highly competitive Nigerian music industry. He acknowledged that the encouragement, patronage at shows, and constant prayers from fans and well-wishers greatly inspired his performances and creative output in the past year.

Taye Currency noted that the journey through the year came with its own challenges, but the unwavering support from Fuji lovers across different states of the country kept him motivated to continue promoting the rich cultural heritage of Fuji music. He emphasized that the love shown to him both on stage and off stage reaffirmed the strong bond between him and his audience.

The Fuji star also admonished his fans to sustain and strengthen their relationship with him in 2026, stressing that mutual respect, understanding and unity remain vital for the growth of Fuji music as a genre. According to him, a more robust relationship between artistes and fans would further elevate Fuji music to greater heights locally and internationally.

Looking ahead to the new year, Taye Currency assured his fans of more superlative performances, promising to raise the bar in live entertainment, lyrical depth and stage delivery. He revealed that his plans for 2026 include performances that will not only entertain but also educate listeners through meaningful messages rooted in culture, morality and life experiences.

“I am deeply grateful to every Fuji lover who stood by me in the past year. Your love gives me strength. As we move into 2026, I urge us to grow stronger together. Expect more quality, educative and entertaining performances from me,” he stated.

Taye Currency concluded by wishing his fans a prosperous and fulfilling year, while reaffirming his commitment to upholding the values and traditions of Fuji music and delivering top-notch entertainment wherever he performs in 2026.

‎Orumogege Cup: Organisers Appreciate Stakeholders, Promises Bigger 2026 Edition. ‎

As the year 2026 begins, the organisers of the Orumogege Football Tournament have expressed profound gratitude to key stakeholders and supporters whose contributions ensured the successful completion of the Season 2 edition of the grassroots football competition.

‎In a New Year message released by the organising committee, the Chairman of the tournament, Mr. Amos Adewale Ado, appreciated all individuals, institutions and organisations that stood firmly with the tournament from inception to its grand finale, describing their support as instrumental to the growth and credibility of the competition.

‎Mr. Ado specifically paid glowing tribute to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Olaoye Afolabi Ghandi, Orumogege III, for his royal backing, moral support and consistent encouragement, which he noted gave the tournament cultural pride and community acceptance facilitated by Reverend Peter Olaleye. 

‎

‎The tournament chairman also acknowledged the contributions of the Chairman of Cradle Carnival, former House of Rep. member Olusegun Odebunmi “Bunvic”, and the Secretary of Cradle Carnival, Mr. Muyiwa Oke, for their organisational support and partnership that added colour and structure to the event.

‎Further appreciation was extended to Oyo State House of Assembly members that represented Ogbomosoland for their acceptance and moral guidance throughout the competition, as well as to the Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasila Adeqoke, for her support and commitment to grassroots sports development in the state.

‎Mr. Ado did not fail to recognise Allansmith CEO, Mr. Joshuah Adamu, alongside other sponsors, partners and well-wishers whose financial and logistical support contributed immensely to the smooth execution of the tournament.

‎He also commended all participating teams, match officials, organisers, volunteers and football lovers who embraced the tournament, describing their discipline, sportsmanship and enthusiasm as the true success story of Season 2.

‎Looking ahead, the Orumogege Football Tournament Chairman assured stakeholders and the general public of a more robust, well-structured and rewarding tournament in 2026, promising improved organisation, increased incentives and wider participation aimed at discovering and nurturing young football talents.

‎According to him, the vision of the Orumogege Football Tournament remains the promotion of unity, youth empowerment and grassroots sports development, adding that the organisers are determined to raise the bar in the coming edition.

‎He concluded by wishing all supporters a prosperous New Year and called for sustained collaboration to make the 2026 tournament bigger and better for the benefit of the community and Nigerian football at large.

New Year: Oriolowo Praises Nigerians’ Resilience, Calls for Urgent Govt Action

A senator of the 9th Assembly representing Osun West and a political leader in Osun State, Senator Adelere Oriolowo, has congratulated Nigerians on the New Year, commending their resilience in the face of widespread economic and social challenges.

In a New Year message, Oriolowo thanked Nigerians for enduring the difficulties of the outgoing year, noting that insecurity, unemployment, economic hardship, and the high cost of living and transportation placed enormous pressure on citizens across the country.

He said Nigerians were able to weather the storms of 2025 because of their resilience, endurance, hope, faith, and positive disposition, qualities he described as consistent traits of the Nigerian people in times of crisis and uncertainty.

According to Oriolowo, these attributes have continued to help Nigerians survive periods of turmoil and disaster, stressing that the strength of the people remains the nation’s greatest asset.

The former lawmaker urged the Federal Government to urgently address the suffering of Nigerians, saying citizens have endured prolonged hardship in recent years. He called on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the “Renewed Hope Agenda” begins to reflect meaningfully in the daily lives of Nigerians as the country moves into 2026.

Oriolowo cautioned the government against taking Nigerians for granted because of their ability to endure hardship, emphasizing that citizens have no other country to call their own and deserve responsive and people-centered governance.

He also appealed to Nigerians to continue working together to build a better nation, stressing that peace, unity, and faith are essential to overcoming fears and achieving harmonious coexistence.

On Osun State politics, Oriolowo called on residents of the state to support the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the next governorship election, describing the party as the solution to the challenges facing Osun.

He concluded by wishing Nigerians a prosperous New Year marked by peace, progress, and an improved quality of life.