Nigerian woman sparks outrage for refusing chemotherapy despite ₦30 million donations over religious Beliefs

Nigerian woman sparks outrage for refusing chemotherapy despite ₦30 million donations over religious Beliefs

A Nigerian woman, known online as Aunty Esther, is facing widespread criticism after announcing she would not begin chemotherapy for breast cancer due to her Jehovah’s Witness beliefs, despite allegedly receiving over ₦30 million in public donations for treatment.

Esther first drew public attention on November 24 when she posted on X (formerly Twitter) about her deteriorating health, stating: “I’m scared. All I want is to live, I don’t want to die. Please believe me when I say something is wrong. My breast is swollen and I desperately need help.”

Her plea prompted Nigerians to contribute generously, with reports showing her account held ₦30,776,252, alongside a receipt for a preferred meal costing ₦74,000.

On Thursday, Esther revealed that medical tests confirmed cancer in her breast and armpit, while her internal organs remained unaffected. Doctors reportedly advised her to start chemotherapy immediately, including a blood transfusion to stabilize her blood count—a procedure she declined in line with her religious doctrine.

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“I respect everyone’s opinion, but my family and I choose the injection and food that will boost my blood,” Esther wrote, adding that doctors agreed to follow her treatment plan gradually before starting chemotherapy. She also thanked donors and said she was “getting better.”

Reports indicate this is not her first round of fundraising. In June, she reportedly received over ₦4 million, opting for treatments that avoided blood transfusions, consistent with Jehovah’s Witness practices.

Her recent announcement has sparked anger on social media, with critics accusing her of misleading donors who expected her to follow standard medical advice. Some have demanded refunds, while others suggested she seek support from her religious community.

One social media user commented: “Religion is really affecting a lot of Nigerians. Because of your church beliefs, you chose an alternative treatment… hope it works for you.”

Others have highlighted the risks of refusing blood transfusions and the longstanding Jehovah’s Witness stance on medical treatment, reigniting debate over religion and healthcare in Nigeria.

Nigerian woman sparks outrage for refusing chemotherapy despite ₦30 million donations over religious Beliefs