By Ovat Abeng
Amid growing concerns over the rising number of sudden and unexplained deaths in Nigeria, commonly referred to as “slump and die” cases, a Consultant Pathologist at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Prof. Chukwudi Onyeaghana Okani, has called on the Federal and State Governments to urgently employ more pathologists in health facilities across the country. This, he believes, will help curb this disturbing trend.
Prof. Okani emphasized that post-mortem examinations are crucial and remain one of the most effective tools for determining the actual cause of death. According to him, only a pathologist is trained to provide an accurate diagnosis that can inform efforts to protect the living from similar fates.
Delivering the 15th Inaugural Lecture of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University at the School’s ETF Auditorium, Igbariam, Anambra State, on Thursday, Prof. Okani explored the theme “Harmony In Healing: Bridging Life’s Journey For The Living And Extracting Wisdom From The Departed.” He stressed that pathology provides critical insights that not only inform accurate diagnoses but also contribute to the development of targeted therapies.
“Pathologists play an essential role in the medical field,” Prof. Okani stated. “We are often referred to as the ‘Supreme Court’ of medicine because our work provides the foundation for both diagnosis and treatment. By performing autopsies, we allow the deceased to continue teaching the living. The knowledge we extract from the deceased informs improvements in healthcare for the living.”
Prof. Okani further explained the importance of post-mortem examinations in cases where the cause of death is unknown, unnatural, or occurs under suspicious circumstances. He highlighted the dangers of burying individuals who succumb to “slump and die” incidents without a proper examination, as this often leads to counteraccusations and speculation among family members about spiritual or ritual causes of death.
“Post-mortem examinations are vital in dispelling myths and ensuring clarity for the living,” he said. “It is the only solution to the alarming rise of these sudden deaths, which have claimed the lives of many, both young and old. I urge anyone seeking treatment to ensure that a qualified pathologist is available at the hospital. If not, they should reconsider their options.”
In conclusion, Prof. Okani called on both Federal and State Governments to prioritize the employment of pathologists across the nation’s health facilities to combat this growing health challenge.
Prof. Okani’s presentation, which marked his decoration as the University’s 15th Inaugural Lecturer, garnered significant attention and added prestige to the event.
