WHY WE STORMED MEDICAL LABORATORIES IN LAGOS AND OGUN STATES -MLSCN

In furtherance of its avowed commitment to combat quackery and uphold the integrity of medical laboratory practice across the country, the Medica Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) under the leadership of the Acting Registrar/CEO, Dr. Donald Ofili recently conducted stringent inspections in Lagos and Ogun States. The exercises were also in line with the mandate of the Council to protect the health and wellbeing of the populace.

According to the team lead and Head of MLSCN, South West Zonal Office, Dr. Paulinus Offutalu, the operations were designed to identify and address non-compliant facilities, ensuring only licensed and safe laboratories operate within the healthcare system. He expressed sadness over the incidence of critical violations that undermine patient safety and diagnostic accuracy, as unregistered facilities were found operating while exhibiting poor biosafety practices that posed significant risks to the populace. “It’s more worrisome that the inspection uncovered clear instances of quackery, where unqualified individuals were performing diagnostic tests thereby jeopardizing the lives of citizens,” he said.

Dr Ofutalu further noted the Council under the leadership of Dr. Donald Ofili would not condone such breaches and had no option than to seal the non-compliant laboratories immediately. While urging the public to be extremely cautious and always prioritize their health by patronizing only medical laboratories that conspicuously display valid MLSCN licenses and certificates, Ofutalu stated: “This vigilance is crucial to guarantee accurate test results and safe professional services, thereby supporting the Council’s ongoing mission.

MLSCN remains steadfast in its dedication to eradicating quackery, enforcing rigorous professional standards, and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of all
citizens.”