Popular Nigerian health influencer and medical doctor Aproko Doctor has cautioned against religious leaders who discourage their followers from seeking proper medical care in favour of faith healing.
In a video shared on March 20, 2026, the doctor raised concerns over the growing trend, warning that such advice could put lives at serious risk.
He revealed that a friend’s mother recently came close to death after following instructions from her pastor, who allegedly told her to rely on faith instead of seeking hospital treatment for a diabetic ulcer.
According to him, the condition—which was initially minor—worsened significantly after the woman avoided medical care, believing the illness was spiritual in nature.
Aproko Doctor criticised the pastor’s alleged advice, stating: “Do you know what the pastor told her? He told her that it was spiritual. He told her that the doctors will kill her. He told her that her faith will be measured by her refusing the doctors.”
He described the situation as a form of “collective negligence,” stressing that such actions could have fatal consequences if not addressed.
While clarifying that he believes in miracles, the medical expert emphasised that faith should not replace medical treatment, especially in serious health conditions.
He warned that discouraging patients from visiting hospitals could lead to preventable deaths, urging religious leaders to act responsibly when advising their members.
The doctor’s comments have sparked conversations online, with many Nigerians calling for greater awareness on the importance of combining faith with proper medical care.
