Nanya's Death: Senate Orders Nationwide Distribution of Antivenoms in Hospitals

The Nigerian Senate has ordered the nationwide distribution of antivenoms to hospitals across the country following growing concerns over snakebite-related deaths.

This directive comes in the wake of the tragic death of Abuja-based singer, Ifunaya Nwugbene, who reportedly died after suffering a snake bite, allegedly due to the unavailability of timely and effective antivenom treatment.

Lawmakers expressed concern over the increasing number of preventable deaths caused by snake bites, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where access to lifesaving antivenoms remains limited. The Senate stressed that antivenoms are essential emergency drugs and must be readily available in public health facilities nationwide.

Relevant health authorities have been urged to act swiftly to ensure adequate supply, proper storage, and effective distribution of antivenoms, while also improving emergency response protocols for snakebite victims.

The Senate noted that the loss of lives to snake bites is unacceptable and called for urgent measures to prevent further fatalities.

Following the snakebite dèath of Ifunaya, Senate President Akpabio has ordered hospitals nationwide to stock anti-venoms.

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— YabaLeftOnline (@yabaleftonline) February 3, 2026