Anambra state
The Anambra State Government has arrested a 47-year-old woman, Onyinyechi Charles, for allegedly masquerading as a surgeon.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, disclosed the arrest to journalists on Sunday in Awka, the state capital.
He revealed that the suspect operated an unlicensed traditional birth attendant facility in the Umueri community of Anambra East Local Government Area.
According to Dr. Obidike, investigations by the Ministry of Health linked the illegal facility to severe medical complications and patient fatalities.
The suspect allegedly confessed during interrogation that she had been conducting C-sections, normal vaginal deliveries, and other highly technical surgical procedures despite having no formal medical training.
“The suspect was previously known as an ‘Eze Nwanyi’ [female traditionalist] before becoming a church minister, and later presenting herself as a surgeon,” Dr. Obidike stated.
A raid on the facility conducted by the Commissioner alongside the Chairman of Anambra East LGA, Mr. Ifeanyi Chinweze, and security personnel, uncovered a disturbing environment.
Authorities recovered a variety of surgical instruments alongside what appeared to be a traditional shrine and a church altar operating within the same premises.
The facility has been sealed by the state government, and the suspect is currently awaiting arraignment in court.
Dr. Obidike condemned the illegal operation as a severe threat to public health.
He emphasised that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo has zero tolerance for quackery and will continue its aggressive surveillance to flush out unlicensed operators.
He also urged residents, particularly pregnant women, to patronize only government-approved hospitals and registered healthcare professionals.
Reacting to the development, LGA Chairman Mr. Ifeanyi Chinweze commended the health ministry and security agencies for shutting down the facility.
He assured residents of the local government’s commitment to eradicating unlawful medical practices and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious clinics.
