The Benue Hospital closure follows alarming misconduct claims as the state begins a deeper probe into unsafe medical practices

Officials confirmed on Saturday that the Benue Hospital Closure was ordered after the state sealed St John’s Hospital in Otukpo over grave allegations of professional misconduct.

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According to the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, the closure stemmed from an ongoing investigation into suspected malpractice.

He said the ministry had been monitoring the facility after receiving troubling complaints and later deployed an enforcement team to the premises on Friday.

The inspection team was led by the Director of Medical Services, Dr Agbadu Joshua, and supported by Dr Alex Iorbo, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association’s Anti Quackery Committee.

Desk officers from Otukpo and Gboko also joined the operation as part of routine oversight.

Ogwuche stated that the team discovered poor operating conditions and failures to comply with standard treatment protocols.

One of the allegations, involving the reported removal of both breasts from a patient on 25 November in a manner that did not meet clinical requirements, heightened the urgency of government action.

He said the seriousness of the case required immediate intervention.

The hospital was sealed without delay, and the Medical Superintendent was issued a formal query and directed to appear before the ministry on Monday to aid further inquiries.

The commissioner stressed that the Benue Hospital Closure reflects the state’s determination to protect residents from unsafe and unprofessional medical practices.

He warned that any health provider found endangering lives will face firm sanctions.

Ogwuche added that the decision comes shortly after the shutdown of St Peter and Paul Community Health Centre and Maternity in Lessel, following allegations of severe professional breaches.

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He said the state remains committed to cleansing the health sector and upholding ethical standards through powerful regulatory measures.