Kano State Launches Probe After Woman D!es From Allegedly Forgotten Surgical Scissors

Kano State health authorities have announced an official investigation following the death of Aishatu Umar, a Nigerian woman who reportedly died due to complications arising from a surgical instrument left inside her abdomen. The incident allegedly occurred during a procedure at the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre in Kano State.

Umar, a mother of five, passed away on Sunday while undergoing surgery intended to remove the scissors that were reportedly left behind during an earlier operation. A relative of the deceased, Abubakar Mohammed, told reporters that Umar had experienced severe abdominal pain for months after the initial surgery in September 2025.

According to Mohammed, Umar repeatedly sought medical attention at the hospital as her condition worsened, but was only given pain-relief medication. It was only two days prior to her death, following diagnostic scans, that the forgotten scissors were discovered. Plans for corrective surgery were immediately made, but Umar died before the procedure could be carried out.

In response, the Kano State Hospitals Management Board pledged a comprehensive investigation into the alleged medical negligence. Executive Secretary Mansur Nagoda ordered an immediate probe, emphasizing transparency and professionalism in uncovering the facts.

The board’s spokesperson, Samira Suleiman, stated that all medical and administrative processes connected to the case would be examined. Suleiman added that appropriate actions would follow if negligence is confirmed, and expressed condolences to Umar’s family, stressing that patient safety remains a top priority.