Two Medical Doctors Arraigned for Alleged Involuntary Manslaughter in Lagos

The Lagos State Government has initiated legal proceedings against two medical practitioners, Michael Atiba and Michael Ugbeye, as they stand accused of involuntary manslaughter in the tragic demise of patient Ejiro Ugorobi.

The Lagos State Government brought forward charges against two medical professionals, Dr. Michael Atiba of Gbagada General Hospital and Dr. Michael Ugbeye, a consultant at a national orthopedic hospital. The charges stem from an alleged incident of involuntary manslaughter involving the unfortunate passing of patient Ejiro Ugorobi.

The accused doctors, whose residential details were not disclosed, entered pleas of not guilty during the proceedings at Ikeja High Court. State Counsel Mr. Olalekan Azeez pressed for a trial date in light of their plea, asserting that the defendants’ purported negligence in administering anesthesia before and after surgery led to the untimely demise of Ugorobi on October 21, 2023.

In response, the defense counsels presented bail applications on behalf of their clients. The first defendant’s counsel emphasized Dr. Atiba’s profession as a lifesaver and urged the court to grant bail on lenient terms. Similarly, the second defendant’s counsel highlighted Dr. Ugbeye’s extensive experience in orthopedic consultancy spanning over three decades and urged the court to consider self-recognition bail.

After due consideration, Justice Oyindamola Ogala granted bail to both defendants in the sum of five million naira each, requiring two sureties for each accused, residing within the court’s jurisdiction. The sureties must demonstrate credibility through verifiable home and office addresses, financial stability, and provide their BVN and NIN details to the Lagos State Government. The trial is scheduled to commence on May 15.

This development underscores the gravity of the allegations and the legal process’s commitment to ensuring justice in matters concerning medical negligence. The alleged offense, as per the prosecution, is in violation of Section 224 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.