Kano Hospital Suspends Three Staff After Surgical Scissors Left in Patient’s Body Led to Death

The Kano State Hospitals Management Board has suspended three medical personnel at the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre following the death of a patient, Aishatu Umar, after a pair of surgical scissors was allegedly left in her stomach during a medical procedure.

Aishatu Umar, a mother of five, reportedly underwent surgery at the facility in September 2025. After the procedure, she began experiencing persistent discomfort. Following a series of medical tests and scans, doctors later discovered that a pair of surgical scissors had been left inside her abdomen.

The incident came to public attention after her brother shared the story online, triggering widespread public outrage and calls for the responsible medical personnel to be sanctioned.

Reacting to the development, the Kano State Hospitals Management Board, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Samira Suleiman, said a preliminary investigation ordered by the Executive Secretary, Dr. Mansur Mudi Nagoda, confirmed that surgical scissors were indeed left inside the patient’s body after the procedure.

The Board announced the immediate suspension of three personnel directly involved in the case from clinical duties.

It also disclosed that the matter has been referred to the Kano State Medical Ethics Committee for further investigation and appropriate disciplinary action in line with professional standards and existing laws.

“The Board extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late Aishatu Umar and sympathizes with them over this painful loss. We reassure the public that negligence will not be condoned in any form,” the statement read.