Lagos Launches Probe into Pregnant Woman’s Death Over ₦500K Deposit Demand
By IDNN News Desk
The Lagos State Government has vowed to hold accountable all individuals and institutions involved in the tragic death of Mrs. Kemi Folajimi, a pregnant woman who was allegedly denied emergency treatment by a private hospital in Lakowe, Ibeju-Lekki over her husband’s inability to provide a ₦500,000 deposit.
The incident, which led to the death of both Mrs. Folajimi and her unborn child, has sparked widespread national outrage and renewed calls for healthcare reforms. The Lagos State Government has described the situation as “tragic and shocking.”
Pregnant Woman Dies After Hospital Allegedly Demands Upfront Fee
As earlier reported by IDNN, Akinbobola Folajimi, the grieving husband, posted a distressing video showing his wife’s final moments. He claimed the private hospital refused to commence any treatment until a ₦500,000 deposit was made, despite the emergency condition.
“I begged them to save my wife while I sorted out the money, but they drove us out like we didn’t matter,” he recounted in an emotional Instagram post.
The hospital referred them to a General Hospital in Epe, but Kemi reportedly died before they could reach the facility.
Lagos Health Commissioner Orders Full-Scale Investigation
Speaking on Saturday in Ikeja, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, announced the formation of a high-level investigation panel to determine the facts surrounding the incident.
The probe is being conducted by the Lagos State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA). It will assess:
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Potential medical negligence
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Possible regulatory breaches
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Compliance with emergency medical protocols
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Legality of operations of the institutions involved
Initial findings suggest that both a traditional birth attendant and a private hospital may be culpable. Interviews and compliance checks are already underway.
“Justice Will Be Served” – Government Assures Public
Prof. Abayomi emphasized that the investigation will scrutinize whether the health providers involved were HEFAMAA-certified and whether they followed best practices in line with Lagos State health regulations.
“We are committed to seeking justice for Mrs. Folajimi and her family,” he stated.
He urged citizens to report any health facility not registered with HEFAMAA or operating beyond its approved capacity. The state is intensifying oversight and re-committing to maternal and child health as a priority.
Call for Collective Responsibility in Healthcare
Beyond legal action, the Commissioner called on community leaders, religious groups, and medical professionals to work together in promoting safe maternity care and ensuring that tragedies like this do not happen again.
“Healthcare should never be denied on the basis of money during emergencies,” he added.
This heartbreaking case continues to resonate across Nigeria, as citizens question the ethics, humanity, and priorities of parts of the country’s healthcare system.
Know Your Rights:
🔹 In Nigeria, emergency care must not be delayed due to inability to pay.
🔹 All hospitals must be registered and regularly inspected by HEFAMAA.
🔹 Patients have a right to timely care, especially during life-threatening situations.
Join the Conversation
Who should be held accountable for Kemi’s death? How can we stop healthcare discrimination based on wealth?
