Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) assures residents that public hospitals remain fully stocked with anti-snake venom, following the death of TikTok singer Ifunanya Nwangene from snakebite complications.
Mandate Secretary for Health, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe on Tuesday, says antivenom supplies are centrally stored at the Abuja Central Medical Stores and managed under strict cold-chain conditions.
“This is a painful loss. Medically preventable deaths must trigger stronger safeguards,” Fasawe says, while extending condolences to the family.
She explains that antivenom selection follows expert guidance from veterinary doctors to match venom strains common in the FCT. Both polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms are maintained.
However, Fasawe cautions that antivenom effectiveness depends on early administration. “Once neurotoxic symptoms set in, recovery is no longer guaranteed. Rapid evacuation saves lives.”
To reduce delays, the FCTA deploys 12 newly procured ambulances and expands road access. She confirms that ICU care, airway management, blood transfusion, and coagulation monitoring are available across FCT hospitals.
Facilities failing to follow approved clinical protocols, she warns, will face sanctions.
Residents are urged to call 09157892931 or 09157892932 during emergencies and to avoid harmful first-aid practices such as tourniquets or herbal remedies.
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Chukwu Obinna 
Otamere Gladness 
Hussaini Ibrahim 