UATH Denies Allegations of Negligence In Dr. Obadiah Mailafia’s Death
THE University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) has denied responsibility for the death of Dr. Obadiah Mailafia, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and ex-presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Mailafia, 64, died on Sunday, September 19, 2021, at the hospital. Following his passing, groups including the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), and several civil society organizations (CSOs) raised suspicions, alleging medical negligence and foul play.
In response, UATH’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Michael Atiga, said the hospital provided immediate and appropriate care upon Mailafia’s arrival.
“The patient arrived around 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 18. The hospital had prior notice and was fully prepared for his arrival,” Atiga stated.
“His oxygen saturation was about 60 percent—critically low—so doctors began treatment immediately, including placing him on free-flow oxygen and administering medication without any demand for payment.”
Atiga explained that Mailafia’s oxygen levels improved during the evening, reaching around 90 percent at one point. Given his critical condition, a nurse who was off-duty was recalled to provide round-the-clock care.
“Despite the team’s best efforts, he unfortunately passed away later that night. Even the wife reportedly appreciated the doctors for their commitment and dedication,” Atiga added.
When asked whether the wife’s appreciation was documented, Atiga said it was relayed to him by the attending doctor.
Addressing reports that a foreign doctor had called during treatment and advised resuscitation, Atiga confirmed the incident but said the call came after Mailafia had been pronounced dead.
“The foreign doctor, speaking through the deceased’s son, told our doctor to begin chest compressions. But our doctor, with over 20 years of experience, explained that the patient was already deceased and resuscitation would have no effect.”
On allegations that the hospital demanded ₦600,000 before administering certain medication, Atiga strongly denied the claim.
“That is entirely false. No payment was requested before or during treatment. The patient was treated in the VIP section of our infectious diseases centre, and he received full attention,” he said.
Atiga challenged those making the claim to verify with Mailafia’s wife directly.
“It’s surprising that these allegations are surfacing after his death. In fact, after he passed, we were told that the CBN would handle the bill, and there were no issues raised then,” he noted.
He further explained that Mailafia was conscious and interacting with the medical team during the initial phase of treatment, but his condition deteriorated despite their efforts.
“When he requested a ventilator, the doctors determined that it would likely hasten his death due to his condition,” Atiga explained.
He concluded by reiterating that the hospital did everything within its capacity to save Mailafia’s life.
