Ondo Police Detain Prophetess and Fake Midwife Following Tragic Maternal and Infant Deaths
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two women, Elizabeth Aremu and Blessing Effiong, in connection with the separate and tragic deaths of two mothers and their newborn babies in different locations across the state. The incidents, which have sent shockwaves through the communities, occurred under suspicious circumstances involving unqualified individuals posing as healthcare providers.
Details of the Arrests and Tragic Incidents
According to a detailed statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, on Sunday, April 19, 2026, the arrests followed two separate reports filed in early April. The first incident was reported on April 16, 2026, in Akure, where Mrs. Bawa Blessing and her newborn baby died after delivery at a private residence in the Gloryland area, off Ado Road.
The residence is owned by Elizabeth Aremu, who allegedly presented herself as a midwife without proper qualifications. Investigations revealed that the victim developed severe complications shortly after delivery and died before she could be transported to a medical facility. During a police visit to the scene, detectives discovered the lifeless body of the newborn infant wrapped in a sack, leading to the prompt arrest of Aremu.
Second Case Involving a Church Prophetess
In a separate and equally distressing development, on April 11, 2026, a report was filed concerning the death of Jennifer Sunday, a 20-year-old woman, and her baby in Emure Ile, Owo Local Government Area. The young mother was taken to a local church due to labour pains, where the prophetess of the church, identified as Blessing Effiong, allegedly undertook the delivery.
The newborn infant reportedly died at the scene, while the mother later succumbed to complications on the way to the hospital. This tragic event led to the arrest of Effiong, highlighting the dangers of seeking medical care from unregulated individuals, even in religious settings.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigations
The Ondo State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal, has assured the public that thorough investigations are underway. The remains of the deceased mothers and their infants have been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, and the Federal Medical Centre morgue respectively, for preservation and autopsy to determine the exact causes of death.
In the statement, the Command emphasized its commitment to unraveling the circumstances surrounding these incidents and ensuring that all persons found culpable are brought to justice. The police also issued a strong advisory, urging members of the public to always seek medical care from qualified and licensed healthcare providers, particularly in critical situations such as childbirth, and to avoid unregulated facilities or individuals posing as medical practitioners.
Appreciation and Commitment to Safety
Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal expressed profound appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his unwavering support, strategic leadership, and continuous guidance. He noted that the IGP’s wealth of experience, particularly from his previous service in Ondo State, has continued to strengthen the Command’s operational capacity and enhance its crime-fighting efforts.
The Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to take decisive action against all forms of criminality, including medical quackery that endangers public health. This case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with unqualified medical practices and the importance of regulatory oversight in healthcare services.
