Sickle Cell Claims Medical Doctor, Pharmacist Twin Sisters 48 Hours Apart In Yobe

A family in Yobe State has been thrown into mourning following the deaths of twin sisters, a medical doctor and a pharmacist, from complications associated with sickle cell disease.

The sisters, identified as Dr. Hadiya Usman, also known as Hassana, and Dr. Aidah Usman, also known as Usaina, reportedly died 48 hours apart.

Hadiya, a medical doctor, reportedly died on Friday, October 2, 2026, after battling a sickle cell crisis for about a week at the Federal Medical Centre, Nguru.

Her twin sister, Aidah, a pharmacist, died on Sunday, October 4, while receiving treatment for a similar sickle cell complication.

Reports said Aidah had been admitted at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital before she was discharged.

She reportedly collapsed and died while visiting her twin sister’s graveside, shortly after Hadiya was buried.

The deaths of the sisters, who were reportedly very close and described by those around them as inseparable, have left their family, friends, colleagues and members of the wider community devastated.

Their mother, Prof. Hadiza Usman, is the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Nguru, and a Professor of Gynaecological Oncology and Reproductive Health.

She is also reportedly the first female Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist produced by the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

The tragic deaths have sparked an outpouring of condolences for the family, particularly over the loss of two young healthcare professionals within the space of two days.