Shock in Anambra: 47-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Allegedly Performing Caesarean Sections Without Medical Licence

By Praise Chinecherem

A 47-year-old woman has been arrested for allegedly carrying out caesarean sections and other surgical procedures without medical qualifications in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The suspect, identified as Mrs. Onyinyechi Esther, an indigene of Abia State married to a native of Nteje in Oyi Local Government Area, allegedly operated an illegal traditional birth attendant (TBA) facility where she reportedly conducted major surgeries, including caesarean sections, despite having no recognised medical training or licence.

Authorities also linked the facility to several reported cases of medical complications and deaths, raising fresh concerns over the dangers posed by unlicensed healthcare providers.

The arrest followed an investigation ordered by the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, as part of the state government’s intensified crackdown on medical quackery.

Officials from the Ministry of Health disclosed that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted to performing caesarean sections, normal deliveries and other surgical procedures without the required qualifications or legal authorisation.

Investigators further revealed that Esther was previously known as “Eze Nwanyi” before later becoming a church minister and allegedly presenting herself to members of the public as a qualified surgeon.

During an inspection of the facility, Dr. Obidike, accompanied by the Chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, Mr. Ifeanyi Chinweze, and security personnel, recovered surgical instruments and other medical equipment believed to have been used for the unauthorised operations.

The inspection team also discovered hospital beds where patients were reportedly treated, alongside what officials described as a shrine and an altar within the premises.

Describing the discovery as deeply disturbing, Obidike warned that the state government would not tolerate individuals endangering lives under the guise of providing healthcare.

“This is a grave threat to public health. No one without the required qualifications should be allowed to perform surgeries or offer medical services. Anyone found engaging in such illegal practices will face the full weight of the law,” the commissioner said.

He urged residents, particularly pregnant women and expectant mothers, to seek medical care only from government-approved hospitals and duly licensed healthcare facilities.

“The Soludo administration remains committed to sanitising the health sector and ensuring that only qualified and licensed professionals provide medical and surgical services across Anambra State,” he added.

Also speaking, Chairman of the council area, Mr. Ifeanyi Chinweze, commended the Ministry of Health and security agencies for uncovering the alleged illegal operation.

He appealed to residents to report suspicious medical facilities to the authorities and avoid patronising unlicensed health centres.

The facility has since been sealed and confiscated pending the outcome of legal proceedings, while the suspect is expected to be arraigned before a competent court.

The allegations remain subject to judicial determination, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law.