The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has pledged a nationwide crackdown on unqualified practitioners, describing the proliferation of quackery, particularly in the health sector, as a serious threat that will no longer be tolerated.
Disu made this commitment while receiving the President of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Haruna Mamman, who led a delegation to seek the intervention of the Nigeria Police Force in curbing illegal practice across the country.
Responding to the request, the IGP stressed that there is no legal recognition for so-called “auxiliary nurses,” insisting that such claims amount to outright quackery. He assured that the police would intensify enforcement efforts and work closely with relevant bodies to ensure offenders are identified and prosecuted.
“There is nothing like auxiliary nurses; it is nothing but quackery,” Disu said, adding that the Force would treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.
In his admonition, the IGP encouraged the association to maintain close contact with senior police officers, assuring them of prompt assistance whenever needed. He reiterated the Force’s readiness to liaise effectively with stakeholders to stamp out illegal practices nationwide.
Earlier, Mamman had appealed to the IGP to strengthen enforcement against quacks and facilitate the prosecution of individuals operating without proper qualifications or licensing. He also requested that Commissioners of Police in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) be directed to collaborate with state councils to tackle the menace at the grassroots level.
“We are confident that under your leadership, the Nigeria Police Force will partner with us. We look forward to a peaceful collaboration, and we are ready to provide all necessary support,” Mamman said.