A heated controversy has erupted across social media after Mensah Omolola, a cancer patient known on X (formerly Twitter) as @Auntieesther, refused a medically advised blood transfusion despite receiving over N30 million in public donations for her treatment. Her decision stems from her religious beliefs as a Jehovah’s Witness, a denomination that prohibits blood transfusions.
Omolola recently disclosed that doctors had confirmed cancer in her breast and armpit. Following the diagnosis, media personality Wisdom Obi-Dickson (@Wizarab10) launched a fundraising campaign to support her treatment. By December 1, 2025, the campaign had raised N30,776,252, with Nigerians rallying to her aid.
The controversy intensified when Obi-Dickson revealed that Omolola had declined a blood transfusion, a standard component of her recommended treatment plan. She reportedly made the decision after members of her church warned she could be “disfellowshipped” if she accepted the procedure.
According to the organizer, doctors presented two treatment paths:
Standard Protocol: Includes a blood transfusion and is fully covered by the donated funds.
Alternative Protocol: A longer, more expensive, bloodless treatment plan.
Omolola chose the second option to adhere to her faith. “@MensahOmolola is a Jehovah’s Witness and is opting for other alternatives. Though it will take longer and cost more, we have to respect her religious belief,” Obi-Dickson explained, adding that her medical team is now adjusting the treatment accordingly.
Another associate, @AUNTYMUSE_, defended her, saying Omolola had always been open about refusing blood transfusions—even before the fundraising began.
Her choice has drawn widespread criticism. Many donors argue that funds contributed to save her life should support the most effective medical treatment, not be limited by religious restrictions.
Commentator @UncleAyo suggested the money should be redirected to others in urgent need of life-saving care. “The money raised on the goodwill of internet strangers was to see another stranger survive death,” he wrote. “If she’s willingly choosing death… there are hundreds of people who would crawl for an opportunity.”
Others echoed the call for refunds or redistribution, arguing that the original purpose of the donation—funding optimal, life-saving treatment—was no longer being followed.
Doctors and health advocates online have expressed concern. @OurFavOnlineDoc acknowledged the need to respect religious freedoms but warned that declining ideal medical care in such a critical condition could worsen her prognosis. He urged calm but noted that modifying treatment to suit beliefs may limit her chances of survival.
Despite the backlash, fundraising organizers say the donations will continue to cover Omolola’s medical expenses as she proceeds with the non-transfusion treatment plan.
The controversy remains one of the most debated health and ethics issues on Nigerian social media this week.
