A cancer patient, Mensah Omolola — popularly known on X as Auntieesther — has stirred debate online after confirming that she rejected a recommended blood transfusion on religious grounds, despite receiving over N30 million in public donations for her treatment.
Omolola, a member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, disclosed on Thursday, December 4, that ongoing medical examinations showed her ailment was confined to her breast and armpit. She also expressed gratitude to Nigerians who contributed toward her medical bills.
She wrote, “Good morning Good afternoon Good evening. I know say a lot of people want update. I say make I tell una, my result don come out.
I thank all of you for your money contributions. Doc tell @auntymuse_, myself and my husband the results. Nah my breast and armpit the cancer dey.”
The fundraising drive was coordinated by media personality Wisdom Obi-Dickson (@Wizarab10), who confirmed that contributions had exceeded N30.7 million as of December 1, 2025. However, he noted that the situation became complicated after Omolola’s church raised objections to blood transfusion as part of her treatment.
Obi-Dickson explained that doctors had proposed two treatment plans — one requiring a transfusion and another without transfused blood, which would be costlier and slower. He said Omolola opted for the latter in line with her belief.
Wizarab10 wrote, “Latest update is that she is responding to care.
Her blood levels are being optimized for the next phase of care. She was offered the option of blood transfusion before she can begin chemo, but she declined due to her faith.
“She is a Jehovah’s witness and thus, opting for other alternatives. Though it will take longer and cost more, we have to respect her religious belief.
“The medical team has a diagnosis now, which is currently guiding her line of care. All funds will be channelled towards her medical bills and hospital care. Once again, thank you for your kindness.”**
He added, “While we respect her religious belief, we do not have to be a part of it and the ensuing consequences. Her church people have said she would be disfellowshipped if she takes the blood transfusion.
Her family have said whatever happens to her, is the will of God, while fighting against blood transfusion.
It is best we leave her in their care if religion trumps medical science. Dr Sina has spoken with care and medical experience, and all of that fell on deaf ears.”
Another media personality, @AUNTYMUSE_, who has accompanied Omolola throughout her treatment, corroborated that she chose her medical path long before donations even began.
@AUNTYMUSE_ wrote, “She @MensahOmolola has always been clear about her stand from day 1 way before the contribution. Right from her house till the hospital.
“It was her decision I have so many witness on that day, even before we started the treatments. even while filling the form for the hospital which I indicated her church.
“@MensahOmolola is still recovering. However route she chooses, we love her to contribute for her, please let’s respect her choice. The doctor herself is aware of this and encourages us to stay strong with her in this time.
“Is not like there is no other options. We were given two options and @MensahOmolola choose the one she wanted. And the one she wanted can also do the job.”
Her refusal of a transfusion has generated widespread reactions on X, with many users expressing concern, while others stressed respect for her right to make personal medical decisions.
@symplyDAPO wrote, “It’s better to refund all the donations than give the family or church.
“That is if you don’t want to use to to save lives of other people in the hospital that truly need assistance.”
Some questioned the role of religion in life-saving situations.
@OgbeniDipo commented, “Well done to all three of you for trying to help. Sad to see what religion does to people.”
Others stressed that donations should remain committed to medical care alone.
@Farmercist urged, “Please do not leave the money for the family or church…
“Remove it from that bank save it in another, make it public… it ca be used for someone else.
“Everyone on the internet that provided that money wanted it to go for science (medical treatment ) not church or religious practice treatment.
“Church should prayed to hep her before it escalated”
Some highlighted legal rights in such situations.
@egi_nupe___ wrote, “This thing is pretty simple: as an adult, she has the constitutional right to refuse medical treatment, including blood transfusions, on religious grounds, even if her life is at stake.
The right and decision must be respected. Not even a court of law can force it, except for a minor/a child.
“What I would rather expect people to say is that should anything happen to her (God forbid) as a result of the decision, whatever money left should be used for the treatment of another person with similar condition and is willing to take the required medical treatment. The money should not be transferred to her family or anybody close to her.”
Others expressed concern while respecting her stance.
@osemagnum wrote, “She definitely will need blood. But again, It’s her decision.
As one familiar with this condition… I would partly say I’m almost scared.”
More sympathetic voices prayed for her recovery and reflected on faith and health.
@RAI_Fabiasoft added, “May Auntie Esther be well and recover swiftly!
Let’s take a moment to reflect on FAITH and HEALTH with some important insights.
We need room to grow in our understanding and application of wisdom, especially since BALANCING these two aspects are ESSENTIAL TO LIFE.”