Aproko Doctor Speaks Out Against Pastors Endangering Lives with Faith Healing Advice
Popular Nigerian health influencer and medical doctor, Aproko Doctor, has issued a strong condemnation of religious leaders who promote faith healing over medical treatment, highlighting a recent incident where a woman nearly lost her life due to such advice. In a video shared on social media on March 20, 2026, he emphasized the severe risks posed by pastors who discourage their members from seeking proper healthcare.
Case of Woman Nearly Dying After Pastor's Guidance
Aproko Doctor revealed that his concern stems from a personal experience involving a friend's mother. The woman, suffering from a diabetic ulcer, was advised by her pastor to rely solely on faith and avoid hospital treatment. This led to the condition escalating into a severe infection, bringing her dangerously close to death. He described the situation as alarming and questioned the responsibility of religious leaders in such matters.
He quoted the pastor's words to the woman: "Do you know what the pastor told her? He told her that it was spiritual. He told her that the doctors will kill her. He told her that her faith will be measured by her refusing the doctors." Aproko Doctor stressed that this is not merely a difference of opinion but a case of collective negligence that requires urgent attention.
Call for Action and Online Reactions
In his video, Aproko Doctor called on responsible bodies and fellow General Overseers of various churches to address this issue and ensure their practices do not harm members. He clarified that while he believes in miracles, faith should not replace medical care, as relying exclusively on spiritual intervention in serious health cases can result in avoidable deaths.
The video sparked significant reactions online, with many users expressing support for his stance. For instance, one user commented: "When pastors and reverends fall sick, they travel abroad for proper medical treatment. But when their members are sick, they prescribe prayers like medicine oil and holy water. It’s time to stop deceiving our people." Another added: "When pastors tell people diabetic ulcers / dental abscesses / cancers are purely spiritual & medical care = lack of faith, lives are lost unnecessarily. Prayer + hospital is not unbelief, it’s wisdom."
Broader Context and Related Incidents
This incident is part of a larger pattern discussed by Aproko Doctor, who has previously commented on health-related issues in Nigeria. For example, he reacted to the death of singer Nanyah, attributing it to a lack of antivenom in hospitals and criticizing Nigeria's failing healthcare system. His advocacy underscores the need for balanced approaches that combine spiritual faith with evidence-based medical treatment to prevent unnecessary fatalities.
As a certified journalist with experience in human interest stories, Aproko Doctor continues to use his platform to educate the public on health matters, urging both religious leaders and individuals to prioritize safety and well-being over misguided beliefs.
