The Kogi State chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP) has intensified efforts to sanitize its ranks by targeting members allegedly aiding internet fraudsters, commonly known as Yahoo Boys, and other criminal elements in the state.
The association’s chairman in Kogi, His Royal Highness, Chief Ibrahim Amodu, expressed deep concern over the disturbing trend while addressing journalists in Lokoja over the weekend.
According to Daily Post, Chief Amodu revealed that some traditional healers have been linked to criminal activities, especially in assisting Yahoo Plus operatives who allegedly use ritual means to perpetrate fraud. He described this development as a major threat to the integrity and public perception of the traditional medicine profession.
“We can’t allow a few bad eggs to destroy the name we’ve worked hard to build. Any member caught aiding criminals will face the full wrath of the law,” he stated firmly.
Chief Amodu emphasized that under the association’s newly adopted code of practice, aiding or abetting crime is strictly prohibited. He stressed that all practitioners must operate within the bounds of the Nigerian Constitution and adhere strictly to the guidelines outlined in Article 46 of the NANTMP Constitution.
To further reinforce discipline, he announced the establishment of a task force to monitor members’ activities and ensure compliance with ethical standards. He also praised the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Gajere Dantawaye, alongside the heads of the State Security Service and Civil Defence Corps, for their commitment to maintaining law and order.
Chief Amodu expressed hope that sustained collaboration with security agencies would help eliminate criminal tendencies among practitioners, adding that traditional medicine must serve the public good rather than criminal intent.
“Traditional medicine is a noble practice. We must use it to heal and uplift our communities, not to empower evil,” he warned.
