BREAKING NEWS
Alleged organ harvesting: EKSUTH dismissed surgeon, suspend nurses, others
Ado-Ekiti, December 19, 2025 – The Ekiti State Government has taken swift disciplinary action against medical staff at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) following findings of professional misconduct in a high-profile case involving the alleged unlawful removal of a patient’s kidney.
In a statement issued today by the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, the government announced the immediate dismissal of the lead surgeon who had primary responsibility for the October 2025 operation on Mr. Joshua Afolayan.
Additionally, all other members of the surgical team present in the theatre during the procedure – including nurses and support staff – have been suspended from duty for one month, pending further administrative review.
The decisions follow the submission of a detailed report by a seven-member independent Panel of Enquiry, chaired by renowned pathologist Professor Francis Faduyile. The panel, constituted just 11 days ago, investigated Mr. Afolayan’s claims that his healthy kidney was removed without consent during surgery intended to address damage to his right kidney from an August 2025 accident.
In a significant show of support for the victim, the Ekiti State Government has committed to fully funding a kidney transplant for Mr. Afolayan, along with covering his post-transplant care and related medical expenses for two years.
The government has also approved a comprehensive reorganization of relevant departments at EKSUTH to enhance clinical governance, accountability, and patient safety protocols.
Dr. Filani emphasized the state’s zero-tolerance for breaches of professional standards, stating: “While we stand firmly behind the dedicated health professionals at EKSUTH, decisive action is essential to uphold ethical practices and restore public confidence in our healthcare system.”
This development sends a strong message across Nigeria’s healthcare sector about accountability in patient care. Fellow Nurses Africa will continue to monitor the situation and its implications for nursing practice, ethical standards, and team dynamics in operating theatres.
Fellow nurses are reminded of the critical role we play in patient advocacy, documentation, and speaking up against any perceived irregularities during procedures.
Stay tuned for updates.
Fellow Nurses Africa is the Independent Voice of African Nursing, we educate, inform and support nurses across Africa
