Ekiti Court Sentences Quack Nurse to Death for Murder During Childbirth
An Ekiti State High Court sitting in Ado Ekiti has sentenced Olatide Emmanuel, a 48‑year‑old unlicensed nurse, to death by hanging for the murder of Bosede Falade.
Emmanuel was arraigned in 2025 on a two‑count charge of murder and impersonation. The prosecution alleged that on 24 June 2019, at Odo Ikole compound, Erinmope Ekiti, he unlawfully caused the death of Falade, and earlier on 9 June 2019, at Ajebamidele Street, Otun Ekiti, falsely presented himself as a medical doctor. The offences contravened Section 316 and were punishable under Section 319(1) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. C16, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012.
Prosecutor Kunle‑Shina Adeyemo called seven witnesses and tendered medical reports, statements, and photographs of the deceased. Eyewitness testimony revealed that the defendant performed a Caesarean section without professional qualification, leading to fatal complications.
In his defence, Emmanuel admitted he was not a certified medical practitioner, claiming he had only completed a nursing apprenticeship. He insisted the operation was initially successful but that the deceased later developed complications.
Delivering judgment, Justice Jubril Aladejana held that Emmanuel’s confession under cross‑examination confirmed his lack of medical training, yet he proceeded to perform surgery. The court described his conduct as “wickedly reckless” and found that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
Justice Aladejana ruled: “The judgment of this court is that you, Olatide Emmanuel, be hanged by the neck until you are dead. May the Lord have mercy on your soul.”
