The Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of a rising singer in the Federal Capital Territory, Ifunanya Nwagene, who died on Saturday after suffering a snake bite. The hospital stated that its medical personnel made concerted efforts to save her life but were unsuccessful.
Nwagene, also known as Nanyah, was a soprano with the Amemuso Choir and passed away at the FMC. Her death was confirmed on Sunday afternoon by the choir in a statement posted on its Facebook page and signed by its Music Director, Sam Ezugwu. The statement announced that Nwagene died on Saturday following complications from a snake bite.
The choir described her passing as a major loss to Abuja’s growing music scene, noting that she was a promising talent on the verge of wider recognition. It added that her voice and spirit would be deeply missed and said burial arrangements would be announced later.
“A rising star, Ifunanya was on the cusp of sharing her incredible talent with the world. “Her voice and spirit will be deeply missed,” the statement read.
In a separate press release issued on Sunday evening, the management of FMC, Abuja, expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, stating that the loss of a loved one is never easy and that its thoughts were with them.
The hospital explained that its medical team responded promptly when Nwagene was brought in, providing immediate and appropriate care.
According to the statement, treatment included resuscitation efforts, intravenous fluids, intranasal oxygen and the administration of polyvalent snake antivenom.
“Our medical staff provided immediate and appropriate treatment, including resuscitation efforts, intravenous fluids, intranasal oxygen, and the administration of polyvalent snake antivenom,” the release stated.
FMC management disclosed that Nwagene suffered severe neurotoxic complications as a result of the snake bite. It said that after a rapid but thorough evaluation, efforts were made to stabilise her condition and prepare her for transfer to the Intensive Care Unit. However, her condition reportedly deteriorated suddenly just before the transfer.
The statement added that medical personnel carried out cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other life-saving measures but were unable to revive her.
“After a thorough but quick evaluation, it was clear that Ms Nwagene suffered severe neurotoxic complications from the snake bite.
“Despite all efforts to stabilise her condition and transfer her to the Intensive Care Unit for further treatment, she experienced a sudden deterioration just before the transfer.