Benue Shuts Hospital Over Unsafe Practices

The Benue State Government has ordered the immediate closure of St. John’s Hospital in Otukpo following confirmed violations of medical standards and multiple complaints of unethical practices. The enforcement action comes after a particularly troubling case involving a patient’s reported double-breast removal without adherence to proper clinical guidelines.

Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, confirmed the development on Saturday. He explained that the facility was sealed for “not adherence to established clinical guidelines” and operating in a manner dangerous to public safety.

The Ministry had initiated close monitoring of the hospital after receiving multiple reports of substandard practice. An enforcement team was subsequently dispatched on Friday to carry out a comprehensive inspection of the premises.

The operation was overseen by the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Agbadu Joshua, and included the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association’s (NMA) Anti-Quackery Committee, Dr. Alex Iorbo, alongside other public health officials.

Commissioner Ogwuche stated that this action is part of the state government’s intensified campaign against quackery and substandard medical practice throughout Benue.

During the inspection, the team discovered the facility operating in a substandard and unsafe environment, failing to follow numerous approved treatment protocols. A key finding was a reported case of a patient undergoing the removal of both breasts on November 25 “without adherence to established clinical guidelines.”

The hospital was “immediately sealed,” according to the Commissioner. Furthermore, the Medical Superintendent of the facility has been issued a formal query and ordered to appear before the Ministry on Monday for further interrogation regarding the severe lapses in procedure.

The Commissioner reiterated the government’s firm determination to ensure public safety. He emphasized that the administration remains committed to promoting ethical, secure, and standard-driven healthcare services across all of Benue State.

Ogwuche issued a stern warning that the state “will not hesitate to take firm action against any facility found endangering patient lives.” He urged all medical practitioners to uphold the highest professional standards to avoid severe sanctions.

This latest closure highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to cleansing the health sector. The action follows the recent shutting down of St. Peter and Paul Community Health Centre and Maternity in Lessel, Ushongo Local Government Area, which was closed over what officials described as serious professional misconduct.