Dare Babalola
The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, has reacted to the death of singer, Ifunanya Nwagene, popularly known as Nanyah, clarifying that medical personnel made concerted efforts to save her life after she was brought to the hospital following a snake bite.
The hospital explained that Nwagene arrived at the facility alive and was immediately attended to by doctors, but her condition deteriorated due to complications arising from the bite.
The statement read, “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.
“First and foremost, we express our deepest condolences to the Nwagene family during this incredibly difficult time. The loss of a loved one is never easy, and our thoughts are with them.
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.
“After a thorough but quick evaluation, it was clear that Ms. Nwagene suffered severe neurotoxic complications from the snake bite. Despite all efforts to stabilize 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 hospital also denied that they lacked anti-venom, which was attributed to Ifunanya’s death.
“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. We are committed to transparency and integrity in our practices and will continue to pursue excellence in patient care.”
Nwagene died on Saturday at the FMC after suffering complications linked to the snake bite in the Federal Capital Territory.
Her death was confirmed on Sunday afternoon by the Amemuso Choir, where she was a soprano singer.
In a brief statement signed by the choir’s Music Director, Sam Ezugwu, the group announced the singer’s passing.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved soprano, Ifunanya Nwagene, also known as Nanyah,” the statement read, adding that she died after complications from a snake bite.
The singer was known within choral and gospel music circles for her vocal strength and dedication, with colleagues describing her as a promising talent whose loss has left a deep void.
Since news of her death emerged, tributes have continued to pour in from fans and members of the music community, many of whom have expressed shock over the sudden nature of the incident.
