The Enugu State Government has disowned a group accused of extorting traditional medicine practitioners while falsely claiming to represent the state.
In a statement issued in Enugu on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Special Adviser on Media to Governor Peter Mbah, Onyekwere Nwobodo, said the government had received reports of harassment and the collection of unauthorized levies from practitioners.
He identified the group as the Association of Traditional Medicine Practitioners of Enugu State, stressing that it is neither accredited nor recognized and has no authority to act on behalf of the government.
READ ALSO:Â WHO Unveils Global Library for Traditional Medicine
Nwobodo clarified that, under existing laws, the registration and certification of practitioners are handled solely by the state Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and no other body is empowered to impose fees or enforce compliance.
He said the matter had been reported to law enforcement agencies, leading to the arrest of some key members, who are now facing prosecution.
The government urged practitioners to remain vigilant, avoid dealings with unauthorized groups, and verify all regulatory directives through official channels.