FCTA pledges stronger response to snakebites after singer’s death

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has pledged to strengthen prevention, emergency response and treatment systems to curb snakebite incidents across Abuja and surrounding communities following the death of a resident, Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene.

The Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, who died from complications linked to a neurotoxic snakebite, describing the incident as a painful and largely preventable loss.

“The loss of a promising young life is deeply painful and distressing.

Such medically preventable deaths must be taken seriously, with strengthened measures to prevent recurrence,” she said.

Fasawe noted that snakebites remain a public health concern, particularly as snakes commonly inhabit rainforests, grasslands, farms and semi-arid areas, often venturing close to homes in search of food or shelter.

She warned that Nigeria is home to several highly venomous species, including cobras, vipers and puff adders, and advised that all snakebites should be treated as potentially venomous.

She urged residents to adopt preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing while working on farms or in tall grass, avoiding dark areas or using flashlights at night, clearing bushes and debris around homes, sealing openings, and refraining from handling snakes.

In the event of a bite, she advised victims to remain calm, immobilise the affected limb below heart level, remove tight items, gently clean the wound and seek immediate medical attention. She cautioned against harmful practices such as cutting or sucking the wound, applying tourniquets, ice or herbal remedies.

The FCTA said anti-snake venom is available in its hospitals and public health facilities, with supplies tailored to common snake species in the territory through collaboration with veterinary experts.

Polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms are centrally stored at the Abuja Central Medical Stores to maintain quality and cold-chain standards.

Fasawe added that 12 newly procured ambulances have been deployed to improve emergency response times, while hospitals are equipped to provide antivenom treatment, monitoring and supportive care.

Advanced services, including intensive care, airway management and blood transfusion, are also available.

She stressed that both public and private healthcare facilities must strictly follow approved treatment protocols, warning that negligent facilities would face sanctions.

Residents were advised to contact the FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services through 090157892931 or 090157892932 in case of emergencies.

The administration reaffirmed its commitment to improving emergency systems and safeguarding the health and safety of residents across the territory.