The Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, has once again emphatically denied any involvement in the alleged disappearance of a 12-year-old boy’s intestines, seeking to address the serious allegations made by the boy’s mother, Deborah Abiodun. In an official statement released via social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and dated Saturday, the hospital’s management vehemently refuted the claims and provided a comprehensive account of the events.
Ms. Deborah Abiodun had earlier alleged that her son, Adebola Akin-Bright, had his small intestines go missing while receiving medical treatment at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). She had pleaded with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to initiate an urgent investigation into this distressing incident, which she asserted occurred during a corrective surgery performed on July 14, 2023, at LASUTH. This claim was made in a video that went viral, prompting an immediate response from the hospital’s management on August 12, 2023.
According to Ms. Abiodun, her son was initially referred to LASUTH from a private hospital, Obitoks Medical Centre, situated in the Ile-epo area of the Alimosho Local Government Area in Lagos State. This referral was necessitated by complications arising from a prior surgery to address intestinal obstruction.
However, on September 2, 2023, LASUTH’s management reiterated that they had not intentionally removed any organ or structure from the boy’s body during the corrective surgery. They underscored the hospital’s commitment to excellence, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly knowledgeable, skilled, and professional medical consultants who are steadfast in avoiding medical errors.
In their official statement, LASUTH’s management made the following key points:
- Surgical Expertise: LASUTH emphasized that the corrective surgery was conducted by an experienced pediatric surgeon, supported by a team of professionals. The hospital clarified that during the procedure, certain unusual findings were encountered, and video clips of these intraoperative findings are available to provide transparency and address any doubts.
- Investigation: The hospital highlighted that they swiftly initiated an internal investigation into the case by assembling a high-powered panel to scrutinize all aspects of the incident. The panel’s comprehensive report is in the possession of the hospital.
- Empathy and Cooperation: LASUTH expressed empathy towards the patient’s family and acknowledged the need for financial assistance. However, they firmly asserted that resorting to social media to engage in a public campaign against the state government was not an appropriate approach to address the matter. Instead, they are cooperating with state agencies already investigating the incident.
In summary, the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, is resolute in refuting any wrongdoing in the case of Adebola Akin-Bright’s missing intestines. They have provided a detailed and reasoned response to the allegations, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical care and professionalism. The hospital continues to cooperate with ongoing investigations into this unfortunate incident.
