The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has closed 12 unlicensed hospitals and clinics in Buruku, Ushongo, and Kwande Local Government Areas as part of a major crackdown on illegal medical operators.
The enforcement exercise, conducted on Thursday, was led by Permanent Secretary Dr. Beatrice AondoNguemo Tsavmbu, alongside senior officials including Director of Medical Services Dr. Agbadu Iorbee Joshua, Director of Public Health Mrs. Esther Menger, and Director of Medical Laboratory Sciences Mr. Anyebe Boniface.
In Buruku LGA, the facilities affected include Ella Community Health Centre, Tyowanye, and St. William Community Health Centre, Abwa.
Advertisement
Ushongo LGA recorded the closure of De Poloo Community Health Centre, Uli Dispensary, City Community Health Centre, and Tomkenti Community Health Centre.
In Kwande LGA, Luter Clinic and Maternity in Ikyogen, reportedly “harvesting lives like wildfire,” was shut down. Other facilities sealed in the area include Akumator Tsaha Community Health Centre, Primary Health Centre Adagi, Ahobee Memorial Hospital, Divine Community Health Centre, and Tor Chibee Community Health Centre.
According to Daily Post, Authorities cited the lack of operating licences, unsanitary conditions, and failure to adhere to state health regulations as reasons for the closures.
Dr. Tsavmbu condemned the proliferation of illegal medical facilities, warning that “patronizing these centres is tantamount to embarking on a suicide mission.” She further assured that the state government is determined to eliminate medical quackery.
She emphasized that the operation is part of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s plan to modernize and equip public health centres throughout the state.
During the inspection, the team also visited Mbagen College of Health Technology and Mbagen Community Hospital in Abwa, commending both institutions for maintaining high public health standards.
