Ifunaya’s Death: Nigerian Senate Orders Nationwide Distribution of Antivenoms to Hospitals
By Micheal Oladejo
The Nigerian Senate has directed the nationwide distribution of antivenoms to hospitals across the country, following growing concerns over snakebite-related deaths and the availability of life-saving treatment.
The resolution underscores renewed attention to public health preparedness, particularly in emergency response to venomous bites.
The decision comes in the wake of the death of Abuja-based singer, Ifunaya Nwugbene, who reportedly died after being bitten by a snake.
News of her passing sparked public outrage and renewed debate over the accessibility of antivenoms in medical facilities, especially in urban and rural areas where snakebites remain a serious risk.
During plenary, senators expressed concern that many hospitals lack adequate supplies of antivenom, forcing victims to rely on traditional remedies or endure dangerous delays in treatment.
Lawmakers described the situation as unacceptable, noting that snakebites are preventable causes of death when proper medication is available.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio consequently mandated relevant health authorities to ensure that antivenoms are procured and distributed to federal, state, and local government hospitals nationwide.
The directive also emphasized the need for proper storage and training of medical personnel to administer the drugs effectively.
In addition, lawmakers called for improved surveillance and reporting of snakebite incidents to better understand the scale of the problem.
They noted that accurate data would help guide policy decisions, resource allocation, and emergency preparedness, particularly in high-risk regions.
Public health advocates have welcomed the Senate’s move, describing it as a timely intervention that could save thousands of lives annually.
According to health experts, Nigeria records a significant number of snakebite cases each year, with fatalities often linked to delayed or unavailable treatment.
The Senate urged swift implementation of the directive, stressing that the loss of lives such as Nwugbene’s should serve as a turning point.
Lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the healthcare system and preventing avoidable deaths through proactive and coordinated national action.
Ifunaya’s Death: Nigerian Senate Orders Nationwide Distribution of Antivenoms to Hospitals
Byadmin
Feb 3, 2026