By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Anambra State Government has arrested a 47-year-old woman, Onyinyechi Charles, over allegations of carrying out surgical procedures, including Caesarean sections, without medical training or authorization.
The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, announced the arrest during a briefing with journalists in Awka. He said the suspect operated an unlicensed traditional birth attendant facility in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area.
According to the commissioner, investigations by the Ministry of Health linked the facility to several cases of serious medical complications and patient deaths.
Dr. Obidike alleged that the suspect admitted to conducting Caesarean sections, normal deliveries, and other complex medical procedures despite lacking any formal medical qualifications.
He further disclosed that the woman had previously identified herself as an “Eze Nwanyi” (female traditionalist), later became a church minister, and eventually presented herself as a surgeon.
A joint operation involving officials of the Ministry of Health, the Chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, Ifeanyi Chinweze, and security personnel led to the discovery of the facility.
During the operation, authorities reportedly recovered surgical instruments and found what appeared to be both a traditional shrine and a church altar within the premises.
The state government has since sealed the facility, while the suspect remains in custody and is expected to be arraigned in court.
Condemning the alleged illegal practice, Dr. Obidike described it as a major threat to public health. He reiterated that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo remains committed to eliminating quack medical practitioners across the state through intensified monitoring and enforcement.
He also advised residents, particularly expectant mothers, to seek treatment only at government-approved hospitals and licensed healthcare facilities.
Reacting to the development, Anambra East Local Government Chairman Ifeanyi Chinweze praised the Ministry of Health and security agencies for shutting down the illegal facility.
He assured residents that the council would continue working to eliminate unlawful medical practices and encouraged members of the public to report suspicious clinics operating in their communities.
