Police in Cross River State have arrested a 33-year-old man over an alleged unauthorised hernia surgery performed on a 60-year-old man at a private clinic in Ekori, Yakurr Local Government Area.
The suspect, identified as Otu Bassey, was arrested after the patient reportedly developed complications several days after the procedure.
According to the Cross River State Police Command, the surgery was carried out on September 8, 2026, and the patient was discharged from the clinic the same day.
Three days later, on September 11, the patient’s condition reportedly worsened. Bassey then took him to Ugep General Hospital for treatment.
Tension reportedly rose at the hospital later that night after the patient’s family members questioned Bassey’s professional qualifications and attempted to attack him.
Police officers intervened and moved him into protective custody at the Ugep Police Division.
During preliminary questioning, police said Bassey reportedly claimed that he was a theatre assistant and that he performed the procedure in the absence of his principal.
The police are now verifying his professional status, qualifications and the circumstances surrounding the surgery. Medical personnel are also examining the patient to determine the cause of the complications and whether they are connected to the procedure.
The police stressed that no conclusion has been reached on criminal liability because the investigation and medical assessments are still ongoing.
The command also warned the patient’s relatives and members of the public against taking the law into their own hands, saying anyone found culpable will face prosecution.
The case raises fresh concerns about the danger of allowing unqualified people to perform medical procedures.
For patients, checking the identity, professional status and qualifications of anyone offering medical treatment can be an important first step before undergoing a procedure.
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