Enugu constitutes inter-ministerial task force to tackle medical quackery

The Enugu State Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Medical Quackery, Illegal Medical Practice, Unlicensed Health Facilities and Related Offences as part of efforts to protect public health and strengthen the regulation of healthcare services across the state.

Speaking during the inauguration of the team in Enugu on Thursday, George Ugwu, commissioner for Health, described the initiative as a significant step towards improving healthcare regulation, safeguarding residents, and ensuring safe medical practices throughout the state.

Ugwu said the task team, comprising representatives of key ministries, agencies and relevant stakeholders, was established to develop a coordinated strategy for identifying, investigating and addressing irregularities in medical practice.

According to him, the administration of Peter Mbah remains committed to transforming the state’s healthcare sector through effective regulation, quality assurance and improved access to safe and reliable healthcare services.

“Our health-loving governor is committed to ensuring effective regulation, quality healthcare delivery and improved access to safe and reliable healthcare services in every part of the state,” he said.

He noted that medical quackery poses a serious threat to public health, stressing that the menace must be tackled through collective action, sustained enforcement and strict compliance with established standards.

“Medical quackery poses serious risks to lives and must be tackled through collective action and sustained enforcement,” the commissioner said.
Ugwu charged members of the task team to work collaboratively, uphold professionalism and ensure that all healthcare providers and facilities operating within the state comply with approved standards and regulatory requirements.

He also underscored the importance of intelligence gathering, regular monitoring and decisive enforcement against individuals and establishments engaged in illegal medical activities.
The commissioner expressed confidence that the task team would play a critical role in sanitising the health sector and protecting the lives of residents.
The inauguration of the task team, he added, reflects the Enugu State Government’s renewed commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of its citizens.

Among those who attended the inaugural meeting were Osinachi Nnajieze, Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General; a representative of the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Ugochukwu Adimora; and a representative of the Commissioner for Children and Gender Affairs, Clementina Ogbu, alongside other government officials and stakeholders.