The Ekiti State Government has dismissed a surgeon at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) following the findings of an investigative panel set up to probe allegations surrounding a controversial surgical procedure.
The decision followed the submission of a report by a seven-member investigative panel chaired by Professor Francis Faduyile to the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani. The panel was constituted 11 days earlier to investigate claims by a patient, Mr. Joshua Afolayan, regarding a surgery he underwent at the hospital.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Filani said the government carefully reviewed the panel’s findings and approved a series of disciplinary and corrective measures.
According to the statement, the surgeon who had primary responsibility for the operation has been dismissed from the service of EKSUTH with immediate effect. In addition, all members of the surgical team present during the procedure have been suspended for one month, pending further administrative review.
The government also announced that it would fully sponsor a new kidney transplant for Afolayan, including post-transplant care and transplant-related medical maintenance for a period of two years.
Filani added that the panel recommended a comprehensive reorganisation of relevant departments within EKSUTH to enhance clinical governance, accountability, and patient safety, a process the government has approved for immediate implementation.
While reaffirming its support for dedicated and hardworking healthcare professionals in the state, the government stressed that it would take firm action whenever professional ethics and standards are violated.
“The Ekiti State Government remains committed to safeguarding patients, upholding ethical and professional standards in healthcare delivery, and restoring public confidence in the state’s health system,” the statement read.
The government further assured residents that necessary reforms would be pursued to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and to ensure that EKSUTH continues to operate as a centre of excellence in patient care.
