By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State Government has warned against medical quackery and the operation of illegal healthcare facilities following a reported case of a newborn baby who suffered severe complications after alleged mismanagement by an unqualified birth attendant.
The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, gave the warning during a visit to the facility where the incident allegedly occurred at Ekiadolor in Ovia North-East local government area of Edo State.
He expressed concern over the poor sanitary conditions discovered at the premises, including the improper storage of intravenous fluids and medical supplies, which raised questions about the qualifications of those operating the facility.
The Commissioner disclosed that the newborn, who is receiving critical medical attention at a referral hospital, is fighting for survival and faces the possibility of losing a limb.
He said the state government was working with relevant law enforcement and regulatory authorities to investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
Dr. Oshiomhole also directed relevant regulatory bodies to intensify surveillance and inspection of healthcare facilities across the eighteen local government areas of the state to check illegal medical practices.
He urged expectant mothers and their families to seek antenatal and delivery services from recognised healthcare facilities staffed by qualified professionals.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, to protecting mothers and newborns, stressing that no woman should lose her life during childbirth due to preventable negligence or unqualified medical practice.