The unfortunate situation of three doctors being accused of causing the death of a three-month-old baby in Abuja has been brought to light. The Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal in Abuja arraigned the doctors for their alleged involvement in the baby’s death. Dr. Iyoha Joseph, Dr. Obafemi Kuye, and Dr. Mukaila Oyewunmi Oladipo are being accused of unprofessional conduct, including administering unnecessary drugs, delaying necessary actions, and exposing the baby to unnecessary medications that ultimately led to his demise.
The panel overseeing the case, chaired by Prof. Abba Hassan, heard the case, with the Registrar of the Council, Dr. Tajudeen Sanusi, reading the charge sheet. The doctors, who worked at the R. Jolad Hospital in Gbagada, Lagos State, were accused of violating the code of medical ethics of Nigeria and the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act.
Specific allegations were made against the individual doctors as well. Dr. Iyoha Joseph was accused of discharging the baby prematurely and falsely claiming to be a specialist pediatrician. Dr. Obafemi Kuye was accused of failing to take adequate history of the baby or provide appropriate care. Dr. Mukaila Oyewunmi Oladipo was accused of neglecting to relieve the patient of respiratory distress and delaying vital procedures.
Despite the seven-count charges against them, the doctors have all pleaded not guilty. The hearing is set to continue on February 20th.
