Wizarab and Dr Sina Step Back from Aunty Esther’s Cancer Case Over Blood-Transfusion Dispute

A growing controversy has erupted around cancer patient Aunty Esther after she rejected a medically recommended blood transfusion due to her faith as a member of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Organisers of her fundraising campaign — popular X influencer Wizarab (also @Wizarab10) and medical volunteer Dr Sina — have publicly stepped down from managing her case. In a post shared online, Wizarab explained that the decision became inevitable when her church threatened to disfellowship her if she accepted blood; her family also insisted that whatever happens is “God’s will.”

Wizarab wrote that despite their efforts to salvage the situation, the combination of religious objection and refusal to accept the transfusion rendered their involvement untenable. He added: “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… It is best we leave her in their care if religion trumps medical science.” He labelled Aunty Esther “not a good or honest person,” citing alleged attempts by her to mislead caregivers about her decision.

The withdrawal of Wizarab and Dr Sina has triggered backlash among donors and online supporters who contributed more than ₦30 million expecting she would follow the full medical plan — including transfusion before chemotherapy. Critics argue that fundraising for her treatment under the promise of “full medical care” becomes problematic when key medical steps are rejected. Some have demanded refunds, arguing that their donations may end up funding slower, less effective treatments or being misallocated.

The case raises tough questions about faith, autonomy, and public responsibility in medical crowdfunding. On one hand, patients have the right to refuse treatment in line with their beliefs. On the other hand, donors contribute with certain expectations. Should crowdfunding campaigns include mandatory disclosures about possible treatment limitations tied to religious beliefs before donations are accepted? What protections should donors have when donations fund treatments that may be refused later? Share your thoughts and comment below.

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