Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a man posing as an ophthalmologist for allegedly administering unapproved eye treatments to hundreds of unsuspecting residents.
The suspect, identified as Gabriel Gideon of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, was apprehended on Thursday, 14 August 2025, after a tip-off from concerned residents in Itu.
Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John said in a statement on Friday: “A fake medical doctor who parades himself as an ophthalmologist has been arrested for allegedly administering a mixture of unapproved substances to hundreds of people in Ikot Akpan Itam, Ikot Abasi Itam, and Nung Ikot Itam in Itu LGA.”
According to police, Gideon used a concoction of olive oil, fruit juice, and water, charging ₦500 per person. Authorities allege he treated over 300 people in each of the three affected communities.
DSP John revealed that officers acted swiftly after receiving the report at around 12:05 p.m., leading to Gideon’s arrest in Nsit-Ubium. “The suspect confessed to not being a qualified eye doctor,” John confirmed.
A medical team from the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health examined the substances and ruled them unsafe for human use.
Police have launched a full investigation to determine whether any victims have suffered lasting harm. The public has been urged to seek treatment only from certified medical professionals.
“We are committed to safeguarding the health of our citizens and will prosecute anyone endangering lives through quack practices,” DSP John added.
