The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has started closing illegal clinics across the state. The exercise kicked off in Vandeikya Local Government Area, where several unlicensed health centres were targeted.
Among the clinics closed are Num Clinic in Abatse-Tsambe, Msendoo Clinic & Maternity in Ihugh, Alex Clinic & Maternity in Gbem, and Tsenum Clinic & Maternity near Agu Market. Others include Emmanuel Clinic in Adeiyongo-Tsambe, Bem & Dooshima (now Iwueseter) Clinic in Ihugh, and Aondoakaa Clinic & Maternity, also in Ihugh.
These facilities were shut down for serious health violations. Some did not have proper licenses, others had very dirty surroundings, poor waste disposal, and were using unqualified health workers to treat patients.
Dr. Beatrice Tsavmbu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, expressed concern after seeing the poor conditions in many of the clinics. She described them as dangerous places that could harm people instead of helping them.
She explained that the ministry, following the order of Governor Hyacinth Alia, would not tolerate illegal or poorly run clinics in the state. The government is currently working on improving and building new health centres that meet modern standards.
Residents were advised to use these upgraded and approved government hospitals instead of risking their lives at illegal clinics. Dr. Tsavmbu warned that getting treatment at unregistered places could be extremely dangerous and life-threatening.
One shocking discovery was made at Iwueseter Clinic in Ihugh. There, officials found used syringes and sharp medical waste thrown in front of the operating room. A foul-smelling gutter flowed behind the maternity ward, and the compound was overgrown with bushes. The clinic was shut down immediately.
At Alex Clinic in Gbem, the situation was no better. The clinic was located in the same building as a home, had rabbit cages nearby, and stored bags of beans—some stained with blood—inside the operating room. This facility was also sealed off.
Another clinic, Holy Emmanuel in Adeiyongo, was found in similarly bad shape and was also closed during the operation.
Dr. Tsavmbu was joined during the inspection by the Director of Medical Services and other top officials from the Ministry. The team promised that more illegal clinics across the state would be identified and shut down to protect public health.
