Anambra Government Nabs Woman, Shuts Down Facility Over Deadly Illegal Procedures

Authorities in Anambra State have apprehended Mrs. Onyinyechi Esther Charles, a 47-year-old woman, as part of their intensified efforts to combat medical quackery. She faces accusations of conducting surgical operations despite lacking the necessary medical and surgical credentials.

Mrs. Charles, who hails from Abia State and is married into a family in Nteje, purportedly ran a traditional birth attendant (TBA) centre situated in Umueri, within the Anambra East Local Government Area. Here, she is alleged to have performed caesarean sections, assisted in normal vaginal births, and undertaken various other surgical interventions. Reports indicate that this facility is connected to several instances of medical complications and patient deaths.

The Anambra State Ministry of Health confirmed that the apprehension was the result of inquiries spearheaded by Dr. Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health. These investigations form part of the state's continuous drive to eradicate unlawful medical practices and safeguard the well-being of its citizens. During questioning, the ministry disclosed that the suspect reportedly confessed to carrying out caesarean sections, assisting with regular deliveries, and conducting other surgical acts without possessing the appropriate qualifications or official permission.

Further details from the ministry revealed her previous alias as Eze Nwanyi before she transitioned into a church minister and began presenting herself as a qualified surgeon. On Sunday, July 12, an inspection of the premises was conducted by Dr. Afam Obidike, the Health Commissioner, alongside Hon. Ifeanyi Chinweze, the Mayor of Anambra East Local Government Area, and security operatives. They reportedly discovered surgical tools and other medical apparatus suspected to have been employed in the alleged illicit operations.

The inspection team also found hospital beds, ostensibly used for patient treatment, within the compound. Additionally, officials uncovered what appeared to be a shrine and an altar within the facility's interior. The state government announced that the property has been seized and will remain so until legal proceedings are concluded. Mrs. Charles is expected to face charges in a competent court of law.