A pregnant woman, Aisha Najamu, tragically died at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Hospital in Katsina after hospital staff allegedly refused to accept a bank transfer for emergency oxygen, insisting on cash payment before providing life-saving treatment.

Eyewitnesses told Katsina Times that Najamu arrived at the hospital in critical condition and urgently required a ventilator. However, the cashier reportedly declined to process a mobile transfer, citing hospital policy that prohibits accepting transfers.

A man who attempted to intervene said he pleaded with the staff to accept a bank transfer, even offering to cover the full cost and send additional funds electronically. He later offered $100 to expedite the payment, but the hospital employee still refused. While the family and bystanders scrambled to find cash, Najamu continued crying and begging for help but died before treatment could be administered.

When contacted, hospital management stated that they had received only one formal complaint from the Human Rights Watch (IHRAAC). Aminu Ibrahim Kofar Bai, a hospital representative, expressed condolences and said officials would visit the family and investigate any negligence.

The hospital defended its staff, citing the Katsina State TSA policy, which allegedly prevents accepting bank transfers, and noted the facility currently has no POS machine. They also explained that oxygen is sourced only from Daura and remains in short supply.

Perm Usman Salisu Wada, head of the hospital pharmacy, added that the employee involved was “strictly following the rules” due to fear of sanctions, noting that some patients previously assisted had later refused to pay their bills after recovery.