The Kebbi State Government has constituted a special committee to investigate the controversial deaths of two children at the General Hospital in Zuru.
Governor Nasir Idris approved the panel following public concern over the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly allegations that the children died after receiving a wrongful injection.
The decision was conveyed on Thursday in Birnin Kebbi by the Secretary to the State Government, Yakubu Bala Tafida.
According to the statement, the committee will be chaired by the Commissioner for Information, Yakubu Ahmed, with the Commissioners for Health, Sama’ila Augie, and Establishment, Manu Dogondaji, serving as members. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Zaki Abubakar Zaki, will act as secretary.
The panel has been mandated to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the deaths, identify individuals directly or indirectly linked to the incident, and verify claims that the children—reportedly siblings—died following a wrongly administered injection.
It is also expected to assign responsibility where necessary and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence. Members have been given a one-week deadline to submit their findings and are to commence work immediately.
The incident, which reportedly occurred earlier this week, has sparked outrage in the community, with residents and family members demanding a thorough investigation and justice for the deceased children.
Allegations circulating among locals suggest that the children fell critically ill shortly after being administered an injection, raising concerns about medical procedures and supervision at the hospital.
Zuru, a major town in southern Kebbi, serves as a referral hub for surrounding communities, making the General Hospital a critical healthcare provider in the area. The incident has heightened anxiety among residents who depend on the facility for essential medical services.
Although health authorities are yet to confirm the exact cause of death, the swift intervention by the state government is seen as an effort to calm tensions and reassure the public of its commitment to accountability and improved healthcare standards.
The outcome of the probe is expected to determine whether negligence or malpractice played a role, and could lead to disciplinary or legal action against those found culpable.
