Snakebite deaths continue to expose serious gaps in Nigeria’s emergency health response. These incidents happen on farms, in homes, schools, and offices, often far from timely care or life-saving anti-venom.

Nigeria records an estimated 20,000 snakebite cases every year, and many deaths are linked to delays, poor infrastructure, and limited hospital supplies.

Below are some cases from recent years that drew public attention and renewed concern over a largely preventable tragedy.

Ifunanya “Nanyah” Nwangene

On January 31, 2026, Abuja-based singer Ifunanya Nwangene, popularly known as Nanyah, died after a snakebite in her residence. According to people close to her, she sought urgent care at two hospitals but was turned away because anti-venom was not available. 

She later arrived at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, where only one dose of anti-venom was on hand, though two were required. A second dose was sourced from a nearby pharmacy, but she died before it could be administered. Her death triggered widespread anger and questions about why major public hospitals lack critical drugs.

Usman Mohammed

Usman Mohammed, head teacher of a primary school in Jamigbe community, Abaji Area Council of the FCT, was killed by a cobra in early 2026. Reports say the snake entered his office through cracks in the dilapidated building and struck as he arrived at work, spitting venom into his eyes. 

He was rushed to a hospital in Lambata, Niger State, but died hours later. Community leaders blamed poor infrastructure and called for urgent repairs to unsafe school buildings and better emergency response in rural areas.

Halimat Aliyu

Halimat Aliyu, a teacher and mother of three in Sepeteri community, Saki East Local Government Area of Oyo State, died on August 27, 2021. She was bitten on the heel while on the farm shortly after alighting from a vehicle. 

She was taken to a teaching hospital where treatment was delayed, then moved to a private facility. Although she reportedly received some anti-venom, her condition worsened. She died three days later, leaving young children who are now being cared for by relatives.

Chidiebere Christopher Nwoke

In February 2020, farmer Chidiebere Christopher Nwoke died after a viper bit him while he was weeding his farm in Umuahia, Abia State. He accidentally struck the snake with a machete and was bitten on the hand.

Instead of being taken to a hospital with anti-venom, he was taken to a herbalist. The swelling worsened, treatment failed, and he later died.

What these deaths means

These cases point to the same problems: late presentation at hospitals, poor access to anti-venom, unsafe buildings, long distances to treatment centres, and confusion about emergency protocols. Snakebite is not rare in Nigeria, but death from it should be. Until anti-venom is reliably stocked, facilities are strengthened, and emergency response is treated as a priority, snakebites will remain a silent killer across the country.

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