Posted on: Thu 27-02-2025

The attention of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) Bayelsa State and the Nursing and Midwifery Committee, Bayelsa State has been drawn to a now-viral story across social media about a fraudulent appeal of funds for surgery involving one Ogechi Okechukwu and a “medical doctor” from one of the Federal Health Institutions in Bayelsa State. Investigations reveal that they staged a fake medical crisis, using forged documents and fabricated procedures to deceive the public and solicit donations.  

In response to public concerns and claims that Ogechi Okechukwu is a registered nurse, NANNM Bayelsa State categorically states the following:

1. Ogechi Okechukwu is NOT a registered nurse or midwife licensed by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
2. Ogechi Okechukwu is NOT a member of NANNM Bayelsa State or any recognized NANNM council in Nigeria.
3. Ogechi Okechukwu DOES NOT possess a valid NMCN license and is not registered on the NANNM Membership portal as a member of NANNM Bayelsa State or any recognized NANNM Council in Nigeria.  

NANNM Bayelsa Slate strongly condemns any form of impersonation and fraud that is aimed at tarnishing the dignity of the nursing profession and eroding public trust in healthcare workers. This incident is a wake-up call on the urgent need for strict enforcement against impostors who falsely claim to be nurses.

1. An individual who claims to be a nurse without a valid practising license from NMCN is a QUACK!
2. Anyone wearing a nursing uniform without an NMCN license.
3. Quacks are a threat to public health and must be exposed before they cause harm
4. We call on the general public to join the fight against the menace of quackery in Bayelsa State and Nigeria by:
5. REPORTING impostors who falsely claim to be nurses in hospitals, clinics, or anywhere in the community.
6. REPORTING hospitals and clinics in Bayelsa that deceive and extort young boys and girls under the guise of training them to be “Auxiliary Nurses”

NANNM Bayelsa calls on law enforcement agencies to carry out a thorough investigation and prosccution of those involved in this criminal act. We also urge the media to verify facts before publication to prevent the wrongful misrepresentation of Nigcria’s hardworking and professional nurses.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) remains the only regulatory body authorized to certify who is a legitimate nurse or midwife in Nigeria. If in doubt, always confirm a nurse’s credentials through NMCN.

While we empathize with those misled by this fraudulent scheme, we assure the public that Nigerian nurses and midwives remain steadfast in their commitment to professionalism, ethical practice, and quality patient care.

The Nigerian nurse is a symbol of competence, compassion, and integrity. As the the professional association cum trade union that represents Nigeria Nurses, NANNM will continue to collaborate with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria to defend the Nursing profession against quackery, fraud, and unethical practices. Together, we stand for excellence, accountability, and the highest standards of patient care.

Signed,

Nurse Fii’ Tornubari Samuel,

State Secretary, NANNM Bayelsa State

bayelsanurses(@gmuail.com

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