The Abia State Ministry of Health has banned all unauthorized medical outreach that jeopardize the health of Abia citizens and declared such mission as unlawful and intolerable.
The declaration became necessary following a reports of unauthorized healthcare services and drug distributions in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area conducted under the guise of a free medical mission, which have reportedly caused adverse drug reactions among unsuspecting residents.
The ministry confirmed that the organizers of the outreach neither sought nor obtained approval from the Abia State Ministry of Health, as required by law.
Preliminary investigations suggest that medications distributed during the event may have led to severe medical complications among recipients.
In an official statement on Sunday, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, expressed deep concern over the risks posed by such unregulated healthcare activities.
He emphasized the government’s zero tolerance for unauthorized medical missions, warning that those found culpable would face legal consequences.
“Unauthorized medical missions that jeopardize the health of Abia citizens are unlawful and will not be tolerated.
“The Ministry of Health is committed to ensuring the safety of our people and holding any violators accountable.
“The government has categorically declared all unapproved medical missions illegal and prohibited”, The statement concluded.
The statement however called on philanthropists, public-spirited individuals, and organizations wishing to sponsor healthcare programs to follow due process by seeking official approval from the Commissioner for Health. This ensures that all healthcare activities adhere to established safety standards and protocols designed to protect the public.
The ministry also urged the public to remain vigilant and cautious of individuals or groups organizing unapproved healthcare events.
Victims are currently receiving treatment at designated public health facilities across the state, where dedicated healthcare personnel are working tirelessly to stabilize their conditions.
Abia Declares Unapproved Medical Outreach Illegal is first published on The Whistler Newspaper