Former Niger North Senator, Ibrahim Musa Kontagora, has died in Abuja after a medical emergency worsened when a private hospital allegedly delayed surgery due to incomplete payment.
Kontagora was rushed to Nizamiye Hospital for urgent surgery, but family sources told Peoples Gazette that doctors insisted on receiving a $30,000 deposit before proceeding. Only $15,000 was initially available, and the hospital reportedly refused to begin treatment until the balance was paid.
“Hospital officials said they would treat him as soon as the remaining balance came in,” a family member said. “By the time it came in, it was already too late.”
The hospital confirmed its policy of requiring full payment before treatment but declined to accept responsibility for the death. The case has drawn public outrage, with many questioning the ethics of denying life-saving care over financial issues, especially for emergencies.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago was among those who reportedly mobilised funds for the late senator before his death. Political figures, including Senator Aliyu Abdullahi, have expressed condolences.
Kontagora, who represented Niger North from 2011 to 2015, was known for his calm approach to politics and strong advocacy for his constituents.
He is survived by his wife and children and will be buried later today at the National Mosque in Abuja, according to Islamic rites.
