Anambra State Govt Suspends Health Worker for Refusing to Attend to Pregnant Woman, Leading to Stillbirth

The Anambra State Government has suspended a health worker, Njideka Ezeihejiofor, for refusing to attend to a pregnant woman who later delivered a stillborn baby outside the health facility. The disciplinary action followed an investigation into the incident by a panel chaired by the Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike.

According to findings, the pregnant woman arrived at the Ukpo Primary Healthcare Centre at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, reporting that she was about six months pregnant and could no longer feel fetal movement. Mrs. Ezeihejiofor, the officer-in-charge of the facility, admitted to turning the woman away due to fatigue, instructing her to seek care at a higher health facility. Shortly afterward, witnesses rushed back to the centre, informing her that the woman had given birth just two poles away and needed urgent medical attention. Mrs. Ezeihejiofor reportedly refused to assist, citing fear.

The health commissioner condemned her actions, stating that she failed to examine the woman or provide a referral letter. Furthermore, when called to assist in delivering the placenta after the stillbirth, she declined. Mr. Obidike emphasized that a retained placenta could lead to severe bleeding and even death, highlighting the gravity of her negligence.

Following deliberations, the panel ruled that Mrs. Ezeihejiofor be demoted and suspended without pay. Other staff members at the facility were also issued queries regarding the incident. Additionally, Blessing Offor, the officer-in-charge of Uke Primary Healthcare Centre in Idemili North, was found to have been consistently absent from duty. Her salary was suspended indefinitely, and she was directed to refund eight months of wages received during her absence.

Mr. Obidike reaffirmed the state’s commitment to quality healthcare delivery, warning that such unprofessional conduct undermines Governor Charles Soludo’s health sector initiatives. He urged any health worker unwilling to fulfill their duties to resign or face disciplinary measures.

Residents were encouraged to report negligence through designated contact numbers displayed at healthcare facilities. The investigative panel included Chisom Uchem, Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Chris Azor, Coordinator of the Anambra Civil Society Network, and other key stakeholders.