The Anambra State Government has closed an unregistered medical facility, Vick-Benedict’s Home, located in Ifitedunu, Dunukofia Local Government Area, as part of efforts to regulate healthcare delivery in the state.
Authorities also sealed several other premises allegedly operated by unapproved traditional birth attendants (TBAs) during an enforcement exercise carried out on Monday.
The State Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike, confirmed the action while leading the operation alongside the Director of Medical Services, Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu.
He explained that the affected facilities were operating without official registration or approval from the Ministry of Health, thereby violating existing healthcare regulations.
According to him, the enforcement drive is part of ongoing measures by the state government to eliminate illegal medical practices and improve the quality of healthcare services available to residents.
Obidike said the facility known as Vick-Benedict’s Home had been ordered to shut down immediately, while its operators were directed to report to the Department of Medical Services at the State Secretariat in Awka for further investigation and regulatory action.
He added that similar action was taken against several traditional birth attendant centres found to be operating without authorisation from the ministry.
The commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo to sanitising the health sector and ensuring that only duly licensed facilities are allowed to operate in the state.
He warned operators of unregistered hospitals, maternity homes, rehabilitation centres and related facilities to regularise their activities or risk closure and possible legal consequences.
Residents were also advised to patronise only accredited and approved health facilities to safeguard their wellbeing.
Obidike further stated that the ministry would sustain monitoring and enforcement activities across the state to ensure compliance with healthcare laws and standards, stressing that the government remains committed to protecting public health and safety.