The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has shut downn 12 unlicensed hospitals and clinics in Buruku, Ushongo, and Kwande Local Government Areas on Thursday in a clampdown on quack medical operators.
The enforcement team was led by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Beatrice AondoNguemo Tsavmbu, with senior officials including the 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, the affected facilities include Ella Community Health Centre, Tyowanye, and St. William Community Health Centre, Abwa. In Ushongo, the closures affected De Poloo Community Health Centre, Uli Dispensary, City Community Health Centre, and Tomkenti Community Health Centre.
Officials said the facilities were shut down for operating without licences, poor sanitary conditions, and failure to comply with state health regulations.
Dr. Tsavmbu condemned the rise of illegal facilities and urged residents to avoid them. “Patronizing these centres is tantamount to embarking on a suicide mission,” she warned, adding that the government is determined to eradicate medical quackery.
She explained that the operation aligns with Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s plan to upgrade and properly equip public health centres across the state.
During the exercise, the inspection team also visited Mbagen College of Health Technology and Mbagen Community Hospital in Abwa, commending both institutions for maintaining good standards.