A newborn is fighting for survival after an alleged case of medical negligence at a maternity facility in Edo State, prompting the government to launch an investigation and warn unqualified birth attendants to stop putting lives at risk.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, issued the warning during an inspection of the facility in Ekiadolor, Ovia North East Local Government Area, where the baby was reportedly delivered.
Oshiomhole disclosed that the newborn had been transferred to a referral hospital for critical medical care, while investigations were underway to establish what happened during and after the delivery.
The commissioner expressed alarm over the condition of the facility, which he said raised serious concerns about hygiene, infection control and patient safety.
According to him, the inspection revealed an unhygienic environment, with intravenous fluids, medical supplies and other materials scattered around and stored in questionable conditions.
He said the findings had also raised concerns about the qualifications of those operating the centre and the possibility of illegal medical practice.
Oshiomhole stressed that childbirth requires skilled professionals, proper equipment and access to emergency services, warning that complications can quickly become life-threatening without appropriate medical intervention.
He further cautioned that having medical supplies such as injections and intravenous fluids does not qualify anyone to practise as a doctor, nurse or midwife.
The commissioner warned that the state would take action against illegal maternity operators and unqualified individuals whose activities expose mothers and newborns to preventable infections, injuries, disabilities or death.
He, however, clarified that the crackdown was not aimed at properly trained and accredited birth attendants working within the limits of their professional authorisation, but at unqualified operators endangering public health.
