Benue govt seals 12 illegal hospitals, clinics in health crackdown

The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has sealed 12 unlicensed hospitals and clinics across Buruku, Ushongo, and Kwande Local Government Areas as part of a sweeping clampdown on quack medical operators.

Permanent Secretary Dr. Beatrice AondoNguemo Tsavmbu led Thursday’s enforcement drive with senior officials, including 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 are Ella Community Health Centre, Tyowanye, and St. William Community Health Centre, Abwa.

Ushongo closures include De Poloo Community Health Centre, Uli Dispensary, City Community Health Centre, and Tomkenti Community Health Centre.

In Kwande, Luter Clinic and Maternity in Ikyogen flagged by community leaders for “harvesting lives like wildfire” was shut alongside Akumator Tsaha Community Health Centre, Primary Health Centre Adagi, Ahobee Memorial Hospital, Divine Community Health Centre, and Tor Chibee Community Health Centre.

Authorities cited absence of operating licences, unsanitary conditions, and non-compliance with state regulations as reasons for the closures.

Dr. Tsavmbu condemned the rise of illegal facilities, warning that “patronizing these centres is tantamount to embarking on a suicide mission,” and vowed that the state will eradicate medical quackery.

She added the operation aligns with Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s agenda to upgrade and equip public health centres statewide.

The inspection team also paid an unscheduled visit to Mbagen College of Health Technology and Mbagen Community Hospital in Abwa, commending both for upholding high public-health standards.