In a recent development, the Lagos State Police Command apprehended a fraudulent medical practitioner operating in the Ikorodu area of Lagos state. The suspect identified as Tayo Shakirudeen, was found practicing medicine with a forged certificate purportedly from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Reportedly, the police uncovered approximately 200 patient records associated with Shakirudeen, a native of Abeokuta, Ogun State. Shockingly, he admitted to diagnosing and treating various ailments, including malaria, typhoid, and infections. Additionally, he confessed to performing surgeries on children with appendicitis, citing his experience as a former Nursing Assistant at The Jones Hospital, Ojokoro along Ikorodu Road.
During interrogation, Shakirudeen revealed that he had been practicing with the fake credentials for three years, albeit claiming his first proper surgery was recent. He detailed his procedures, including conducting vital signs assessments, abdominal scans, administering anesthesia, and performing surgeries with rudimentary tools.
The fake doctor’s hospital, identified as Skyline Medical Centre, employed six individuals and charged exorbitant fees for services rendered. Despite his admission of guilt and remorse, Shakirudeen emphasized the potential dangers of such deceitful practices and urged others to refrain from similar actions.
Upon investigation, it was discovered that Shakirudeen only possessed a Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) from Majidun Grammar School. He confessed to assisting his former boss during surgeries, acquiring skills through observation rather than formal education.
This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with unqualified individuals practicing medicine and underscores the importance of stringent verification processes within the healthcare sector.
