The Bauchi State High Court has awarded ₦10.2 million in damages against Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, for medical negligence that resulted in the death of a patient six years ago.
The judgment was delivered in favour of Adamu Misau, who instituted the suit following the death of his wife, Zaliha Muhammad, after she received treatment at the tertiary health facility in 2020.
According to court proceedings, the deceased, who was pregnant at the time, was initially treated at a primary healthcare centre before she was referred to ATBUTH for specialist medical care. Her husband alleged that the hospital failed to provide the standard of care required, leading to her death.
After reviewing the evidence presented by both parties, the court found the teaching hospital liable for negligence and ordered it to pay ₦10.2 million as compensation to the claimant.
The ruling, which came six years after the incident, underscores the legal responsibility of healthcare institutions to uphold professional standards in the treatment of patients. It also reinforces the right of patients and their families to seek legal redress where medical negligence is established.
Medical negligence cases in Nigeria often take years to conclude due to the complexity of gathering medical records, expert testimony and other evidence required during court proceedings.
The judgment is expected to contribute to ongoing discussions on accountability and improved standards of healthcare delivery in the country.
