BY: CHARLES CHIJIOKE
The Ondo State Government has ordered a full-scale investigation into the death of a 45-year-old woman, Mary Yaduyan, who died shortly after delivering quintuplets at a specialist hospital in Akure, while also approving ₦2 million support for the surviving newborns.
The intervention follows the tragic incident in which Yaduyan gave birth to five baby boys via caesarean section but reportedly died hours later from complications identified by medical experts as pulmonary embolism.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Seun Osamaye, visited the hospital where the babies are receiving care and expressed deep sorrow over the development.
“The governor is deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident,” Osamaye said. “His administration remains committed to safeguarding the lives of pregnant women and ensuring that no effort is spared in caring for these babies.”
She added that the ₦2 million donation is an immediate relief measure, while arrangements are being made for the long-term welfare of the quintuplets, including possible transfer to a specialised facility once stable.
“This tragedy highlights the urgent need for proactive interventions in high-risk pregnancies. We appeal to hospitals to always place premium importance on referrals in cases that require advanced specialist attention,” she said.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Adiji Ojohe, confirmed that a formal probe has already begun into the circumstances surrounding the death.
“The Ministry of Health has set necessary machinery in motion to unravel the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate development,” he said.
“Appropriate actions will follow the outcome of the investigation to enhance maternal healthcare delivery and prevent future occurrences.”
The incident has once again raised concerns about maternal healthcare capacity and emergency response systems for high-risk pregnancies in Nigeria, with potential policy implications for hospital referral protocols and specialist care funding.
TheCable reports that the babies remain under medical supervision at Netcare Multispeciality Hospital in Akure as authorities monitor their condition.
