The National Union of Medical Herbal Practitioners (NUMHP), Ebonyi State Chapter, has issued a strong warning to traditional rulers and government officials to desist from interfering in their activities. The union emphasized that its practices are both genuine and lawful.
This position was outlined in a communiqué signed by Dr. Sunday Nwaji, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Dr. Stephen Ndubuisi Nwogha, the State Chairman, following an emergency meeting held at the union’s secretariat in Abakaliki on December 11, 2024.
The communiqué criticized the undue interference by traditional institutions and government representatives, stating that it has caused disunity within the union. The herbalists urged traditional rulers to focus on their roles as community leaders and cultural custodians, and advised government officials to prioritize implementing policies and programs rather than meddling in the union’s affairs.
“Traditional rulers in Ebonyi should stop interfering with the activities of Medical Herbal Practitioners in the state, as their meddlesomeness has created disunity within the union,” the communiqué stated.
The union further cautioned that such interference not only risks dividing the group but could also escalate tensions in the state. They reiterated their commitment to maintaining professionalism in their work while urging others to respect their mandate.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous resolution to preserve the integrity and unity of the union, while continuing to offer quality services in accordance with legal and traditional guidelines.
