By Ephraim Emmanuel
The Rivers State Ministry of Health has sealed 6 healthcare facilities and arrested 7 persons for operating illegally, engaging unqualified staff, and alleged child trafficking in Port Harcourt and other parts of the state.
The crackdown was carried out by the Ministry’s Anti-Quackery Committee as part of ongoing efforts to sanitize the healthcare sector and protect residents from unsafe medical practices.Briefing journalists in Port Harcourt, the Committee Chairman and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Vincent Wachukwu, said the affected facilities are spread across multiple LGAs, both within and outside the state capital.
“This enforcement is a continuation of our sustained campaign against quackery. For over two years, we’ve sealed numerous hospitals and diagnostic centres, and arrested operators currently facing prosecution,” Wachukwu stated.
Facilities sealed in the latest operation:PLARIV Hospital, Kreigeni Road, Omoku, ONELGAGood Shepherd Hospital, Nkaru Street, Omoku, ONELGA Blessed Goodnews Clinic, 31 Bonny Street, Port HarcourtEstate Clinic, Okahia Estate, off East-West Road, Obio/AkporEL DONA Hospital, Obio/AkporPatent medicine stores in Ndele, Emohua LGA.
Wachukwu said EL DONA Hospital was shut over alleged involvement in child trafficking. He commended the Nigeria Police for swift intervention and pledged the Ministry’s support for a thorough investigation and prosecution.He added that the Committee’s activities now cover all 23 LGAs: “We’re concerned about the entire state, not just Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor. Facilities are sealed not just for non-registration, but for nefarious and unprofessional practices.”
The Permanent Secretary also restated the state’s ban on unauthorized medical outreaches, warning NGOs, religious groups, and healthcare providers to obtain Ministry approval before organizing any free medical program.“Before you carry out any free medical outreach in Rivers State, you must get permission from the Ministry of Health. Some groups are still flouting this directive,” he warned.
