The Anambra State Government has arrested a 47-year-old woman, Mrs. Onyinyechi Esther Charles, for allegedly operating an illegal maternity home and carrying out surgical procedures without the required medical qualifications.
Mrs. Charles, an indigene of Abia State who is married to a native of Nteje in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, was arrested over allegations that she operated a traditional birth attendant (TBA) facility in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, where she reportedly performed caesarean sections, assisted normal vaginal deliveries, and carried out other surgical procedures despite not being a licensed medical practitioner.
According to the Anambra State Ministry of Health, the suspect allegedly admitted during interrogation that she had been performing caesarean sections, normal deliveries, and other surgical procedures without the necessary medical training, certification, or legal authorisation.
She also reportedly disclosed that she was formerly known as Eze Nwanyi before becoming a church minister and later taking on the role of what she described as a surgeon.
Confirming the arrest, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, said government officials recovered various surgical instruments and medical equipment believed to have been used for the alleged illegal operations during a search of the facility.
According to the commissioner, investigators also discovered hospital beds where patients were allegedly admitted and treated. In addition, officials found what appeared to be a shrine and an altar within the premises, raising further questions about the activities carried out at the facility.
Dr. Obidike said the maternity home has been sealed and confiscated pending the conclusion of legal proceedings, while Mrs. Charles is expected to be arraigned before a competent court to answer the allegations against her.