Police operatives from Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Lagos, have uncovered and arrested a woman, Mrs. Aneneofor Nnenna Esther, for allegedly operating as Veterinary Doctor by using her elder sister’s University of Nigeria Degree certificate to sell expired animal drugs to people in the State.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that Mrs. Esther was nabbed at her office located at No. 24, Adelemo Street, in Gloryland estate, Super saver bus stop, Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos.
The Police operation, led by one Supol Andrew, which lasted for several hours was remarkable because the Police recovered various expired drugs as exhibits, which she allegedly sold to innocent people under the guise of being a qualified and licensed veterinary doctor.
The suspect, Mrs. Esther, who is a secondary school dropout with no formal veterinary training, was alleged to be impersonating a licensed veterinary professional by unlawfully using the certificate of her sister, Peace Aforma Ukatu, a graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, who resides in the Eastern part of Nigeria.
The alleged criminal impersonation was compounded by the presentation of forged documents and credentials, which she used to deceive clients and regulatory authorities for some years until she was arrested recently.
Her arrest followed a petition to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, by a reputable organization committed to upholding the rule of law and maintaining professional integrity within the society.
“We categorically condemn all forms of criminality and unethical conduct. And it is in this spirit that we bring to your attention a matter of grave concern that threatens public safety, animal welfare, and the credibility of veterinary practice in Nigeria.”
“This petitioner is concerns about the unlawful and unethical activities of Mrs. Aneneofor Nnenna Esther, who is currently operating a veterinary facility along Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos State, under false pretences and in blatant violation of multiple statutory provisions.”
Police findings revealed that the facility operated by Mrs. Esther is not registered with the Veterinary Council of Nigeria and failed to meet the minimum standards required for lawful operation.
Her unauthorized practice not only undermines the integrity of the veterinary profession but also poses a serious threat to animal health and public safety.
She was exposed by concerned citizens, who had serious concern about her possession, sale, and administration of expired and counterfeited veterinary drugs to unsuspecting clients.
These actions constitute a direct violation of the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act and the guidelines of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The sale and administration of expired and fake drugs further aggravate the situation, exposing animals and their owners to significant health risks and violating public health regulations.
When our correspondent contacted the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ayuba Umma on phone over the matter, she said that the matter is under investigation and the suspect will be charged before the Court if found culpable after the conclusion of investigations by the Police.
Meanwhile, there has been no reaction from the veterinary practitioners association to know if Mrs. Esther is their member and approved to use her sister’s license to practice in Lagos State without background knowledge of the profession.