A doctor has been exonerated in the tragic deaths of two young sisters at Zuru General Hospital in Kebbi State, while two nurses remain in police custody over a suspected medication error that has raised fresh concerns about patient safety in Nigeria’s public health system.
Early this week two sisters died in Zuru General Hospital, Kebbi, Nigeria, after a fatal medication error.
After thorough investigations by a medical panel, the doctor was exonerated due to proper documentation while the two other nurses on duty remain in police custody.
This was stated in a press statement by Nursing Fellows Africa, dated March 26,2026.
The victims, aged six and three, died on March 18, 2026, after allegedly receiving the wrong injections during treatment.
The incident has since triggered widespread debate around accountability, staff coordination, and safety protocols in healthcare facilities.
Findings from an ongoing investigation revealed that the prescribing doctor was cleared by a nine-member panel after presenting detailed documentation specifying the correct medication and dosage instructions.
The panel, chaired by Yakubu Ahmed,Kebbi State commissioner for information and culture. The investigation reviewed testimonies from medical personnel on duty at the time of the incident.
The participation of the Director of Nursing Services and the Kebbi State Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) helped clarify the chain of responsibility in administering the medication. This ultimately led to the doctor’s release from suspicion due to proper record-keeping.
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However, the two nurses who administered the injections remain in custody in Birnin Kebbi as authorities continue investigations to determine the exact cause of the deaths and identify any lapses in execution.
Rising concerns over systemic failures
The detention has sparked protests among some nurses, who argue that the investigation unfairly targets individuals while ignoring systemic issues such as staff shortages, heavy workloads, and communication gaps that often contribute to medical errors.
“Nurses should always document their work and communicate properly. Where they do not understand, they should ask questions to avoid cases like this,” noted Kenny Oluwatosin, a registered nurse.
In response, the Kebbi State Government has provided N10 million to the bereaved family as immediate support. During a condolence visit, the commissioner noted that while no compensation can replace the lost lives, the gesture reflects the government’s solidarity with the grieving family.
Mohammed Sanusi, a traditional ruler and emir of Zuru,also urged patience, stressing that negligence in healthcare must be prevented through strict adherence to professional standards.
Health experts say the case underscores the dangers of medication errors, particularly in paediatric care, and highlights the urgent need for stronger safeguards such as double-check systems, improved communication, and continuous training.
The panel is expected to recommend both disciplinary actions and reforms to prevent future tragedies.
