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In a swift and decisive move, the Benue State Government has shut down St. John’s Hospital in Otukpo following shocking allegations of gross medical negligence, including the alleged removal of both breasts from a patient without proper clinical justification or adherence to standard procedures.
The closure was confirmed on Saturday, 29th November 2025, by the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuché, who described the action as a necessary measure to protect public health and uphold medical standards in the state.
According to reports, the hospital had repeatedly failed to comply with regulatory requirements despite previous warnings. The final trigger appears to have been a particularly disturbing case involving a female patient who allegedly underwent a bilateral mastectomy (complete removal of both breasts) under questionable circumstances, raising serious concerns about informed consent, medical necessity, and procedural ethics.
“Following alarming reports of substandard practices at the facility, including a case where a patient had both breasts removed without following due clinical process, the ministry had no choice but to seal the hospital pending full investigation,” a source close to the ministry revealed.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents of Otukpo and beyond, with many questioning how such a procedure could be carried out without clear medical indication or proper patient counseling. Mastectomies, especially bilateral ones, are typically performed in cases of confirmed breast cancer or high genetic risk, and always with extensive preoperative evaluation and consent.
As of now, the hospital remains sealed, and an official investigation is underway to ascertain the full details of the case, including whether criminal negligence or medical malpractice occurred.
The Benue State Ministry of Health has reassured the public that patient safety remains its top priority and that errant health facilities will face severe sanctions.
More details are expected in the coming days as the investigation continues.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for strict oversight of private healthcare providers to prevent abuse and protect vulnerable patients.
