Lagos woman who rejected blood transfusion despite donation dies

A Lagos-based breast cancer patient and member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mensah Omolola, popularly known on X as Auntie Esther, has reportedly died after rejecting a medically advised blood transfusion.

The 38-year-old was receiving treatment at the Lakeshore Cancer Centre, Lagos, before declining the procedure on religious grounds.

Her death was announced on X on Saturday by Obi-Dickson, who led a donation campaign for her treatment, alongside another supporter, Aunty Muse.

“It is well. Peaceful rest to her. I really do not know what to say,” Obi-Dickson wrote.

Also confirming the development, Aunty Muse posted, “Rest on, Aunty Esther.”

Sunday PUNCH had reported that Omolola rejected a blood transfusion weeks after Nigerians rallied and raised over N30m to support her treatment.

Her case attracted widespread public attention in November after a video of her appealing for financial assistance to commence treatment went viral.

However, an earlier video released in October to draw attention to her condition had sparked controversy, with some Nigerians expressing doubts over the authenticity of her illness.

Following news of her death, reactions flooded social media, with many Nigerians expressing sadness over the development, while others reignited discussions on the balance between religious convictions and medical advice.

As of the time of filing this report, members of her family hadn’t issued an official statement on her passing.(Punch)