Actor Jigan Baba Oja has lamented what he described as the growing commercialisation and misuse of traditional herbal medicine in Nigeria, following his sister’s death from breast cancer.

In a video shared online, the actor said his sister died in September last year after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

According to him, people around her began recommending various herbal remedies after learning of her condition, leaving the family unsure about the appropriate treatment.

“The moment people around her found out about her ailment, they started bringing different herbal options instead of going through medical care. She was confused,” he said.

Jigan said the family spent a significant amount of money trying to save her, but she eventually lost her life.

He expressed concern that some people are turning herbal medicine into a business for profit, despite, in his view, lacking adequate knowledge about herbs and their appropriate use.

“Nigerians are turning traditional herbal medicine into a way of making money and pushing people to lose their lives. Something needs to be done.”

The actor said his experience prompted him to speak out, warning that the unregulated use of herbal remedies could have serious consequences for people dealing with illnesses.

He called for greater caution in the use of traditional medicine, particularly in cases of serious illnesses such as cancer, and urged people to seek appropriate medical care rather than relying solely on unverified remedies. (The Nation)