Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Anambra State Government has intensified its crackdown on quackery in the health sector with the arrest of a 47-year-old woman, Mrs Onyinyechi Esther Charles, over allegations of carrying out surgical procedures, including caesarean sections, without the required medical qualifications or legal authorisation. The suspect, an indigene of Abia State married to a man from Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area, allegedly operated a traditional birth attendant facility in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, where she reportedly performed caesarean sections, conducted normal vaginal deliveries, and carried out other surgical procedures despite not being a licensed medical practitioner.
The arrest followed investigations ordered by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, as part of the state's ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal medical practice and safeguard the lives of residents. According to the Anambra State Ministry of Health, the suspect admitted during interrogation that she had been conducting the procedures without professional certification or legal authorisation. She also disclosed that she was formerly known as "Eze Nwanyi" before becoming a church minister and later taking up surgical practices, presenting herself as a surgeon.
During an inspection of the facility on Sunday, 12 July 2026, the Commissioner for Health, accompanied by the Mayor of Anambra East Local Government Area, Hon. Ifeanyi Chinweze, and security personnel, recovered surgical instruments and other medical equipment believed to have been used in the alleged unauthorised procedures. Hospital beds where patients were reportedly treated were also found within the premises, while officials discovered what they described as a shrine and an altar inside the facility.
The Anambra State Government said the facility has been confiscated pending the outcome of legal proceedings, while the suspect is expected to be arraigned before a competent court. Speaking during the inspection, Dr Obidike described the discovery as disturbing and a serious threat to public health, adding that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo would not allow unqualified individuals to endanger lives under the guise of providing healthcare. He warned members of the public against seeking medical care from unlicensed facilities or unqualified persons, urging expectant mothers and other patients to patronise only government-approved hospitals and duly registered healthcare providers.
The Commissioner reiterated that the Ministry of Health would sustain its surveillance and enforcement operations across the state to identify and prosecute illegal medical practitioners, warning that anyone found violating the law would face the full weight of legal sanctions. The Mayor of Anambra East Local Government Area commended the Ministry of Health and security agencies for uncovering the alleged illegal medical operation and assured residents of the council's continued support for efforts to eliminate quackery and other unlawful practices that endanger lives. He also urged members of the public to promptly report suspected illegal health facilities and patronise only accredited hospitals and qualified healthcare professionals. The allegations against Mrs Charles are yet to be tested in court, where her guilt or innocence will be determined in accordance with the law.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments