Mensah Omolola, a Jehovah’s Witness and cancer patient known on X as Auntieesther, has said she declined a blood transfusion during her treatment, citing her religious beliefs.
As reported by Tribune Newspaper, Omolola made this known after receiving over N30 million in public donations.
She explained on Thursday, December 4, via her X handle, that medical tests confirmed the cancer was limited to her breast and armpit.
She thanked Nigerians for their support, noting that doctors had briefed her team on the latest findings.
She wrote, “Good morning Good afternoon Good evening. I know say a lot of people want update. I say make I tell una, my result don come out. I thank all of you for your money contributions. Doc tell @auntymuse_, myself and my husband the results. Nah my breast and armpit the cancer dey.”
The fundraising was coordinated by media personality Wisdom Obi Dickson, known as @Wizarab10, who helped raise over N30,776,252 as of December 1, 2025. He later said complications arose when Omolola’s church questioned her receiving a blood transfusion.
He said Omolola was presented with two treatment plans, one involving a transfusion, which the available funds could cover, and another without transfusion, which would cost more and take longer. Omolola opted for the latter to align with her beliefs.
Wizarab10 wrote, “Latest update is that she is responding to care. Her blood levels are being optimized for the next phase of care. She was offered the option of blood transfusion before she can begin chemo, but she declined due to her faith.
“She is a Jehovah’s witness and thus, opting for other alternatives. Though it will take longer and cost more, we have to respect her religious belief.
“The medical team has a diagnosis now, which is currently guiding her line of care. All funds will be channelled towards her medical bills and hospital care. Once again, thank you for your kindness.”
He added, “While we respect her religious belief, we do not have to be a part of it and the ensuing consequences. Her church people have said she would be disfellowshipped if she takes the blood transfusion. Her family have said whatever happens to her, is the will of God, while fighting against blood transfusion. It is best we leave her in their care if religion trumps medical science. Dr Sina has spoken with care and medical experience, and all of that fell on deaf ears.”
Another media personality, @AUNTYMUSE_, who has accompanied Omolola through the process, said she had made her decision long before donations began.
@AUNTYMUSE_ wrote, “She @MensahOmolola has always been clear about her stand from day 1 way before the contribution. Right from her house till the hospital.
“It was her decision I have so many witness on that day, even before we started the treatments. even while filling the form for the hospital which I indicated her church.
“@MensahOmolola is still recovering. However route she chooses, we love her to contribute for her, please let’s respect her choice. The doctor herself is aware of this and encourages us to stay strong with her in this time.
“Is not like there is no other options. We were given two options and @MensahOmolola choose the one she wanted. And the one she wanted can also do the job.”
Her refusal has triggered mixed reactions on X, with some questioning the influence of religion on medical decisions.
@symplyDAPO wrote, “It’s better to refund all the donations than give the family or church. That is if you don’t want to use to to save lives of other people in the hospital that truly need assistance.”
Others commented on the tension between faith and healthcare.
@OgbeniDipo said, “Well done to all three of you for trying to help. Sad to see what religion does to people.”
Some users urged transparency regarding the funds.
@Farmercist wrote, “Please do not leave the money for the family or church… Remove it from that bank save it in another, make it public… it can be used for someone else.”
Another user stressed her constitutional right to refuse treatment.
@egi_nupe___ wrote, “This thing is pretty simple: as an adult, she has the constitutional right to refuse medical treatment, including blood transfusions, on religious grounds, even if her life is at stake.”
Others expressed concern for her wellbeing while respecting her choice.
@osemagnum wrote, “She definitely will need blood. But again, It’s her decision.”
Messages of prayer also poured in.
@RAI_Fabiasoft added, “May Auntie Esther be well and recover swiftly! Let’s take a moment to reflect on FAITH and HEALTH…”
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