Aisha Najamu, a pregnant woman, has tragically died at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Hospital in Katsina after hospital staff allegedly refused to accept a bank transfer for emergency oxygen, insisting on cash payment before providing treatment.
Eyewitnesses told Katsina Times that Najamu arrived at the hospital in critical condition requiring a ventilator. However, the hospital cashier allegedly declined a mobile bank transfer, citing hospital policy, leaving the family unable to pay immediately.
A man who attempted to intervene pleaded with the staff to accept a transfer, offering to cover the full bill and even an additional $100, but the request was refused. While efforts to arrange payment continued, Najamu reportedly continued crying and pleading for help before dying.
Hospital Response
The hospital’s management said they had only received one formal complaint from the Human Rights Watch (IHRAAC) and expressed condolences to the family.
Aminu Ibrahim Kofar Bai, a hospital representative, stated they would visit the deceased’s family and investigate any staff found negligent. The hospital, however, defended the staff, citing the Katsina State government’s Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy, which they say prohibits accepting bank transfers, and noted the absence of a POS machine.
The facility also cited a shortage of oxygen, sourced exclusively from Daura. Perm Usman Salisu Wada, head of the pharmacy, said the employee was “strictly following the rules” out of fear of sanctions, adding that some patients previously assisted later refused to pay their bills.
This report highlights systemic issues in emergency care and payment policies that contributed to a preventable death, sparking concerns over hospital protocols and patient safety.
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