A Nigerian medical doctor has stirred reactions online after advising people to remove traditional charms before undergoing surgery, stating they have no medical benefit.
Dr. DS Omeiza made the statement via a Facebook post on Sunday, July 6, warning that charms — often worn for spiritual protection or healing — could interfere with proper medical procedures. His message comes in response to recurring experiences with patients, particularly from rural areas, who enter operating theaters with spiritual amulets or items tied to their bodies.
“When coming to theatre for surgery, kindly remove all these encumbrances,” Dr. Omeiza wrote. “If a charm cannot cure you or change your situation to avoid surgery, then it surely is not what you need for a successful operation.”
He criticized the over-reliance on spiritual remedies, pointing out that they often delay proper treatment and put patients’ lives at greater risk. According to him, while respecting cultural beliefs is important, it should not come at the cost of sound medical intervention.
The post has sparked widespread engagement on social media, with many Nigerians supporting the doctor’s call for reason, while others defended traditional spiritual practices. Some commenters shared stories of how reliance on charms delayed diagnoses and worsened conditions.
Medical professionals have long warned against the risks of spiritual objects interfering with equipment or procedures in modern hospitals. Items like amulets, beads, or hidden objects can complicate sterilization, surgery preparation, or even cause injury during operations.
As traditional beliefs continue to coexist with modern medicine in Nigeria, Dr. Omeiza’s warning highlights the ongoing need for public health education, especially in rural communities.
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