FG Orders Probe of Allegations of Kidney Racketeering in FCT

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Amidst public concerns over reports of booming kidney market in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the federal government said it has directed the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to investigate the allegation of illicit trading on human organs.

It said that the Council is looking into allegations leveled against medical practitioners engaged in such activities.

A statement signed by Director, Media & Public Relations in the Federal Ministry of Health, Patricia Deworitshe, warned that anyone who failed to comply with the provisions of the law on kidney transplant is liable on conviction or a fine of N1,000,000 or imprisonment of not less than two years or both.

The statement read: “The attention of the Federal Ministry of Health has been drawn to a report emanating from the Daily Trust Newspaper titled “Inside Abuja’s Kidney Market where the Rich prey on the Poor in the FCT.

“The Ministry has noted with great concern and condemns in totality such barbaric inhuman criminal practice of kidney trafficking revealed in that report.

“We acknowledge the pain of those affected and wish to let the public know that the National Health Act (NHA) 2014 Sections 51-56, prohibit such illegality. Persons who contravene or fail to comply with the provisions of the section commit an offence and is liable on conviction or a fine of N1,000,000 or imprisonment of not less than two years or both.

“It is pertinent to note that both the seller and the buyers of this illegal trade as well as the medical practitioners and facilities where this criminal act is being performed will face the full wrath of the law”.

The ministry said that donation of kidneys should be on informed consent of the donor and done based on medical advice with privileged information about the process in order to save lives.

The statement said that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) is looking into allegations leveled against medical practitioners engaged in such activities.

“While the Federal Ministry of Health remains committed to improving regulatory standards and practices to enhance effective and efficient healthcare system in line with the renewed hope agenda, the public is hereby advised not to engage in such illegal practices and should contact the Federal Ministry of Health on 08033228978 for any information that can lead to the arrest of such perpetrators,” it said.