Abeokuta, Ogun State – October 23, 2025:
The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ogun State chapter, Dr. Luqman Ogunjimi, has called on residents, traditional leaders, and local authorities to collaborate with the association in curbing the alarming rise of quackery within the state’s healthcare system.
Dr. Ogunjimi made this appeal on Thursday during a stakeholders’ engagement in Abeokuta, where he expressed deep concern over the growing infiltration of unqualified individuals into the medical profession. He noted that the menace of quackery has become a major threat to the health and safety of citizens and requires joint action from both the government and the public.
Quackery Endangering Public Health
According to Dr. Ogunjimi, untrained and uncertified individuals continue to operate as medical practitioners in several parts of Ogun State, putting the lives of unsuspecting patients at risk.
“Quackery is a silent killer. It has destroyed lives, families, and trust in the healthcare system. Many patients suffer permanent damage or even die because they received treatment from people who have no formal medical training,” he said.
He stressed that the Nigerian Medical Association has been working closely with regulatory agencies such as the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and the Ministry of Health to identify, report, and prosecute quacks operating in both urban and rural communities across the state.
Collaboration Needed at the Community Level
The NMA chairman appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, and local government chairmen to support the association’s efforts by providing information about suspicious practitioners in their areas.
He emphasized that community vigilance and cooperation are crucial to eliminating fake doctors and illegal health centers.
“This fight cannot be won by doctors alone. We need the support of our communities to report those who pose as medical professionals without proper qualifications. People should ask questions, verify credentials, and refuse to patronize quacks,” Dr. Ogunjimi advised.
He noted that the association has received numerous complaints from patients who have been victims of fake medical treatments, especially in rural areas where access to quality healthcare is limited.
Government Urged to Enforce Sanctions
Dr. Ogunjimi further urged the Ogun State Government to strengthen enforcement mechanisms to ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law.
He called for regular monitoring of private hospitals, clinics, and maternity centers to verify their compliance with medical standards and licensing requirements.
“The government must intensify inspection and regulation of health facilities. Those who operate illegally should be shut down immediately, and their owners prosecuted. We cannot allow people to continue endangering lives under the guise of providing medical care,” he stated.
The NMA, according to him, has also proposed the creation of a joint task force comprising representatives of the Ministry of Health, law enforcement agencies, and professional associations to coordinate anti-quackery operations in the state.
Public Education and Awareness
Beyond enforcement, Dr. Ogunjimi said the NMA is prioritizing public enlightenment campaigns to educate residents about the dangers of seeking treatment from unlicensed practitioners.
He explained that many people patronize quacks because of ignorance, proximity, or low cost, without realizing the long-term harm it causes to their health.
“We are committed to sensitizing the public through radio programs, community outreach, and collaboration with local organizations. Health is not something to gamble with; it requires professionalism, ethics, and accountability,” he said.
He encouraged residents to visit government-approved hospitals and clinics, where they can access safe, affordable, and professional medical care.
NMA’s Ongoing Reforms
Speaking further, the NMA chairman outlined several initiatives being implemented by the association to improve healthcare delivery in Ogun State. These include:
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Regular training and workshops to keep medical practitioners updated with the latest medical standards and technologies.
- Ethical Oversight: Strengthening internal disciplinary mechanisms to ensure members uphold the highest ethical standards.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Working with the Police, DSS, and other agencies to identify and apprehend fake practitioners.
- Improving Welfare: Advocating for better working conditions for doctors and other health professionals to discourage brain drain and retain skilled personnel within the state.
Dr. Ogunjimi assured that the NMA would continue to uphold its mandate of protecting the health of Nigerians and promoting excellence in medical practice.
Voices from Stakeholders
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ogun State Ministry of Health, Dr. Kayode Oladapo, commended the NMA for its proactive stance against quackery. He reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to partner with the association to ensure that only qualified professionals operate in the health sector.
“We are aware of the dangers posed by quacks, and we are committed to ensuring that every healthcare facility in Ogun State meets the necessary licensing and professional standards,” Dr. Oladapo stated.
A traditional ruler, Oba Wasiu Adedayo, the Olofin of Ilishan, also urged residents to be more cautious and to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to be a doctor or nurse.
“Our people must stop patronizing unregistered clinics and roadside chemists. They should demand to see licenses and registration documents before allowing anyone to treat them,” the monarch said.
NMA Warns Against Patronizing Unregistered Clinics
The NMA further warned residents against patronizing unregistered maternity homes, traditional birth attendants, and unapproved pharmacies, noting that many of these centers are responsible for high rates of maternal mortality, infant deaths, and botched surgeries.
The association advised patients to use official directories and online platforms to confirm whether a medical practitioner is duly registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.
Way Forward
Experts at the event called for the establishment of Primary Healthcare Monitoring Committees across all 20 local government areas of Ogun State. The committees, they suggested, would be responsible for reporting illegal medical activities, verifying health facility registrations, and supporting awareness campaigns.
They also recommended that the state government introduce whistleblower incentives to encourage citizens to report quacks anonymously.
Conclusion
Dr. Ogunjimi reiterated that the fight against quackery is not only a professional duty but also a moral responsibility. He urged all stakeholders — from government agencies to community leaders — to work together to protect the sanctity of medical practice in Ogun State.
“Healthcare is a sacred trust. We must not allow unqualified individuals to jeopardize lives. Together, we can build a system that prioritizes competence, integrity, and patient safety,” he concluded.
