A Jehovah’s Witness cancer patient, known on X as @AuntieEsther (real name Mensah Omolola), has refused a recommended blood transfusion as part of her breast cancer treatment, opting instead for a more expensive alternative aligned with her religious beliefs. The decision, made public amid a massive fundraising campaign that raised over ₦30 million from Nigerians, has triggered a fierce online backlash, with critics calling for the funds to be redirected to other patients.
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Omolola, a popular vendor celebrated for her vibrant X presence and business promotions, announced her diagnosis earlier this year. Supporters rallied quickly, with charity advocate Wisdom Obi-Dickson (@Wizarab10) coordinating donations that surpassed ₦30.7 million by December 1. Recent medical tests revealed the cancer is localized to her breast and armpit, with her internal organs unaffected, offering hope for effective treatment.
In an emotional X update, Omolola shared: “My result don come out. I thank all of you for your monetary contributions. Doc say she want to start chemotherapy but I go take injection. I respect everyone’s opinion but my family and I choose the injection and food wey go boost my blood… Doc accept my decision and she say she go follow me but na small small e go reach when I go start the chemo.”
She expressed deep gratitude to donors, including Obi-Dickson and media personality @AUNTYMUSE_, who has supported her journey: “I appreciate everybody. Thank you #Wizarab10 and #the_beardsina. I am getting better. God bless.”
The controversy escalated when Obi-Dickson revealed that Omolola’s church had threatened disciplinary action, including potential disfellowship, for accepting a transfusion. Doctors offered two paths: a standard chemotherapy regimen supported by transfusion feasible within the current budget or a prolonged, costlier method using injections to boost blood counts without donor blood.
“She was offered the option of a blood transfusion before she could begin chemo but she declined due to her faith… Though it will take longer and cost more, we have to respect her religious beliefs,” Obi-Dickson posted. He later voiced frustration, noting the family’s and church leaders’ firm refusal despite medical advice, suggesting they assume full financial responsibility moving forward.
@AUNTYMUSE_ defended the choice, confirming it was disclosed upfront: “Two treatment pathways were offered and Aunty Esther intentionally chose the non-transfusion option, which doctors agreed could still work.”
Netizens erupted in debate, questioning the ethics of using public funds for a decision perceived as self-endangering. X user @Tmama_toma demanded: “She should rather leave the hospital then and move to church fully for deliverance. While money donated is used for other people in need of treatment and support. Alternatively, return all the money donated to all contributors.”
Philosopher and X user @HudAdeyinka echoed: “Belief shouldn’t end the life God is still sustaining. Choosing treatment isn’t faithlessness, it’s stewardship. There is no worship in the grave. Sometimes the most spiritual decision is to stay alive long enough to praise God better.”
Big Brother Naija star Natacha Akide (@SymplyTacha) went viral with her blunt reaction: “Honestly y’all, if somebody wants to die, I don’t see the argument, you people should allow the person die. I don’t see reasons trying to save someone who doesn’t want to be saved… This isn’t about religious belief, it’s just pure madness.”
Tacha didn’t hold back on perceived hypocrisy: “And let’s be for real, I’m not surprised about Aunty Esther’s situation. She has consistently shown recklessness and a lack of care over the years… That 30 million naira raised can save 50–100 lives in today’s Nigeria! Just channel the funds to people who want to live, and let those who want to die do so in peace.”
To counter misuse allegations, Obi-Dickson has maintained strict accountability. In a recent post, he shared a ₦74,000 receipt for soup and delivery Omolola’s requested meal to complement her “swallow” diet deducted from the balance: “Aunty Esther wanted soup… Balance brought forward as of December 1, 2025: ₦30,776,252. Thank you for your kindness.” He assured followers all funds remain earmarked for her medical bills and care, with ongoing updates promised.
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