The Rivers State Ministry of Health has sealed six health facilities and arrested seven suspects over alleged involvement in child trafficking, the use of unqualified personnel and other unethical practices.
The government’s action is part of a broader campaign to root out illegal healthcare operators in the state.
Chairman of the State Anti-Quackery Committee and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vincent Wachukwu, disclosed this during a press conference in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
Wachukwu said the affected facilities were shut not only for operating without appropriate licences but also for engaging in activities that threaten public health and safety.
“The facilities are not being sealed just because they are not registered. They are being sealed because they engage in nefarious and unprofessional activities,” he said.
The affected facilities according to him are: PLARIV Hospital and Good Shepherd Hospital in Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area; Blessed Goodnews Clinic on Bonny Street, Port Harcourt; Estate Clinic in Okahia Estate, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area; EL DONA Hospital in Obio/Akpor; and some patent medicine shops in Ndele, Emohua Local Government Area.
He disclosed that EL DONA Hospital was sealed over its alleged involvement in child trafficking, adding that the ministry would support law enforcement agencies to ensure diligent prosecution of those arrested.
