Ten Unlicensed Traditional Medicine Practitioners Arrested, Prosecuted in Cross River State.
In a decisive enforcement action, at least ten unlicensed traditional medicine practitioners have been arrested and charged in court in Cross River State following a formal petition by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Cross River State branch.
The arrests stemmed from a campaign by a group organizing traditional medicine trade fairs at the Calabar Municipality Council headquarters, which the NMA described as operating illegally and posing a significant public health risk.
In its earlier petition to Governor Bassey Otu, State Commissioner for Health Dr. Egbe Ayuk, and Commissioner of Police Rasheed Afegbua, the NMA raised urgent concerns. The association warned that the group’s activities could lead to severe health complications for unsuspecting residents, who are being persuaded to purchase and use uncertified products lacking approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
According to the petition, “their activities pose a greater health risk to the population of the state because they market unverified claims that their products cannot make.”
In a statement issued on Monday in Calabar and jointly signed by the State NMA Chairman, Dr. Ezoke Epoke, and Secretary, Dr. Akanimo Ekeruke, the association commended the state government for its swift response.
“The Nigerian Medical Association, Cross River State Branch, sincerely thanks His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State, and the entire State Government for their decisive action against unlicensed traditional medicine vendors operating illegally in the state,” the statement read.
It continued, “We commend the enforcement efforts that resulted in the arrest and prosecution of about ten unlicensed traditional medicine vendors, showing the government’s proactive step and commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of residents in Cross River State.”
The NMA emphasized that the government’s action aligns with its goal of ensuring quality healthcare for all citizens and highlights the critical importance of regulation in the medical field.
While acknowledging the dangers posed by unlicensed practitioners, the NMA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and promoting safe, effective, and regulated medical practices across the state.