A man accused of impersonating a medical doctor in Cross River State has admitted treating no fewer than 15 patients over the years despite not being licensed to practise medicine, the police have said.
The 39-year-old suspect, Udeme Emmanuel Ekpeme, was arrested by operatives of the Uwanse Police Division in Calabar South Local Government Area following a petition alleging impersonation, fraud and the operation of an illegal mobile medical facility.
Investigators alleged that Ekpeme defrauded a resident, Mrs Edemawan Samuel, of N500,000 after allegedly promising to secure employment for her children at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly disclosed that he abandoned his medical studies before graduation but later acquired medical equipment, which he used to diagnose and treat patients while hoping to raise funds to complete his education.
He claimed that from 2014 to 2026, he attended to at least 15 patients, adding that referrals from previous clients helped him attract more people seeking treatment.
"I still intend to return to medical school if I can raise the money. I bought some medical equipment and used them to examine patients who came to me," he was quoted as saying.
Ekpeme also admitted receiving the N500,000 from the complainant but said he diverted the money to clear an outstanding debt instead of processing the promised employment.
The complainant told investigators that she became suspicious after the suspect demanded another N40,000, claiming the money was needed to complete banking procedures linked to the recruitment exercise.
She said she contacted her brother, who advised her that the suspect was likely running a scam, prompting her to report the matter to the police.
Mrs Samuel further alleged that the suspect had administered injections to her and her two children while claiming to be a qualified medical practitioner.
The spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, confirmed the arrest, saying preliminary findings indicated that the suspect falsely presented himself as a doctor and obtained money from the complainant under false pretences.
Akata disclosed that exhibits connected to the case had been recovered, while the suspect remained in custody pending the conclusion of investigations and possible prosecution.
The police also urged residents to verify the credentials of healthcare providers before seeking treatment, warning that patronising unqualified practitioners could endanger lives.
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