Enugu State Government has thrown its weight behind the inauguration of the State Chapter of the Association of Traditional Medicine Practitioners, even as it cautioned the traditional healers against using their powers to cause harm through ailments.
Giving the warning at the formal inauguration of the association held at the Enugu North Municipal Council on Saturday, Governor Peter Mbah who represented by the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Ugochi Madueke, noted that the coming together of the traditional healers is a welcome development.
“The power given to you to practice by the Enugu State Government is power to save lives and not power to poison people. If you are found wanting, causing ailments, your certificate will be withdrawn”, she added.
Speaking at the occasion, the State Chairman of the Association of Traditional Medicine Practitioners, Chief Nwaweniteaku Aniamulueze (Dr) said their coming together would enhance healthcare services in the state, allaying fear of misuse of power by the traditional healers. Aniamulueze reiterated the imperative forming the association, pointing out it was in view of the efficacy of roots and herbs in medical therapy.
According to him, “Traditional medicine refers to health practices, approaches, knowledge and beliefs incorporating plant, animal and mineral based medicines, spiritual therapies, manual techniques and exercises, applied singularly or in combination to treat, diagnose and prevent illnesses or maintain well-being.”
He further said, “In the last decade traditional medicine has become very popular in Nigeria, partly due to the long unsustainable economic situation in the country.
“The high cost of drugs and increase in drug resistance to common diseases like malaria, bacteria infections and other sexually transmitted diseases has caused the therapeutic approach to alternative traditional medicine as an option.
He commended the State government for the recognition accorded the association, promising to work under rule and regulations of the government at all times.
Also speaking, the Administrative Secretary of the association who doubled as the Master of Ceremony (MC) Hon. Madus Matthias, said the event was a huge success, adding that will contribute their quota in the health sector positively.
Other speakers at the event included: traditional doctors Chinecherem (Financial Secretary) Chiyereugo Orji (Treasurer) and Obiageli Udenwa (PRO). Masquerade and cultural troupes entertained the audience with dance. The high points of the event were the formal inauguration of the association, unveiling of free medical treatment and awards to citizens
