The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Abuja has rejected claims circulating on social media linking the death of singer Ifunanya Lucy Nwagene to the alleged absence of anti-snake venom, insisting she received appropriate medical attention before her condition worsened.
In a statement issued in Sunday by the hospital’s management, the centre said online narratives surrounding the incident had misrepresented both the medical response and the circumstances leading to the singer’s death, describing the allegations as misleading and unfounded.
The hospital said preliminary medical findings showed that Nwagene suffered severe neurotoxic complications resulting from the snake bite, adding that her case deteriorated rapidly despite urgent and professional medical intervention by attending specialists.
The incident occurred on January 31, 2026, after Nwagene was brought to the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi, Abuja, where she was evaluated and treated following a snake bite sustained at her residence.
“We wish to address the circulating discussion on social media concerning the unfortunate case of Ms Ifunanya Lucy Nwagene, who tragically passed away due to neurotoxic complications following a snake bite on January 31, 2026,” the statement said.
“We want to clarify that the management team at Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, acted promptly and with the utmost care upon Ms Nwagene’s arrival. Our medical staff provided immediate and appropriate treatment, including resuscitation efforts, intravenous fluids, intranasal oxygen, and the administration of polyvalent snake antivenom,” it added.
According to the hospital, efforts were made to stabilise the singer and prepare her for transfer to the Intensive Care Unit, but her condition deteriorated suddenly moments before the move could be completed.
“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. Our team of professionals worked diligently to provide CPR and other life-saving measures; however, despite these efforts, we were unable to revive her,” the statement said.
The management dismissed claims of inadequate response, stating that allegations of non-availability of anti-snake venom were false, while urging the public to rely on verified information rather than speculation on social media platforms.
“We stand by the quality of care and dedication our team demonstrates daily. The claims of non-availability of anti-snake venom and inadequate response are unfounded and do not reflect the reality of the situation,” the statement concluded.
