The University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, has launched an investigation into the death of a patient who allegedly died as a result of staff negligence on September 21, 2025.
Reports widely circulated on social media alleged that the late Mrs. Charity Unachukwu was brought to the hospital’s emergency unit but was rejected due to a lack of space.
The reports further claimed that indolence and negligence by staff across several departments led to her death after about 12 hours of alleged neglect.
In a statement, UNTH’s Public Relations Officer, Boniface Uchelue, said the Chief Medical Director (CMD) had cancelled a proposed foreign trip to oversee a forensic investigation into the incident.
While expressing the hospital’s condolences to the family and sympathisers of the deceased, Uchelue stressed that UNTH is guided by its motto, “Service to Humanity”, and takes such allegations seriously.
“We are committed to reviewing the report with the aim of uncovering the facts, ensuring accountability, and driving systemic improvements,” Uchelue stated.
He explained that the investigation will review the care provided, examine emergency admission procedures, laboratory and diagnostic services, and interdepartmental coordination, to identify any systemic or individual failures that may have contributed to the lapses.
Uchelue also noted that UNTH, recently certified as a Level 3 teaching hospital for quality improvement after major service and infrastructure upgrades, is working to achieve Level 4 certification by next year.
“We reassure the public that the investigation will be thorough and conducted in a transparent manner. Where lapses are confirmed, corrective and disciplinary measures will follow. Systemic improvements will continue to be prioritised,” he said.
“We appreciate the public’s vigilance and trust, and we reaffirm our commitment to compassionate, safe, and effective healthcare for all.”
