Anambra Government Threatens Sanctions Against Unregistered Mortuaries After June 5
Health Ministry orders immediate registration and licence renewal as crackdown on illegal mortuary operations looms statewide.
The Anambra State Government has directed all mortuary operators to register their facilities and renew expired licences before June 5, warning that enforcement teams will begin statewide inspections and impose sanctions on defaulters as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare regulation and public safety.
The Anambra State Government has announced plans to begin strict enforcement actions against unregistered mortuary facilities operating across the state after June 5, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to reform and regulate the healthcare sector.
The directive was issued by the Anambra State Ministry of Health through a public notice signed by the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Chukwulobelu Ugochukwu, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike.
According to the ministry, all proprietors and operators of mortuaries currently functioning within the state are required to register their facilities with the Directorate of Medical Services and renew any expired operational licences without delay.
The government emphasized that hospitals offering mortuary services are not exempt from the directive. Such facilities must register their mortuary units separately, irrespective of the registration status of the hospitals themselves.
Health authorities noted that the exercise is part of a broader healthcare reform programme designed to sanitize the sector, strengthen regulatory oversight, and ensure compliance with public health standards.
The ministry expressed concern over the existence of illegally operated mortuaries and facilities running without proper authorization, stating that such practices pose significant risks to public health and safety.
Officials explained that maintaining an updated database of licensed mortuary facilities would improve monitoring, accountability, and compliance across the state while helping authorities respond effectively during disease outbreaks and public health emergencies.
The government further stated that proper regulation of mortuary services would assist in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, especially during pandemics and epidemic outbreaks. It would also help curb unlawful activities linked to the improper handling, preservation, and mutilation of corpses.
In the notice, the ministry urged all affected operators to complete their registration and licence renewal processes on or before June 5, warning that no extensions may be granted beyond the deadline.
The ministry revealed that comprehensive inspection and enforcement operations would commence immediately after the deadline, with violators facing penalties and sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the state’s Public Health Law.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to improving healthcare service delivery and called on stakeholders within the health sector to support government efforts aimed at promoting professionalism, accountability, and public safety.
The Anambra State Government maintained that the registration exercise is essential for ensuring that all mortuary facilities operate within approved standards while protecting the health and wellbeing of residents across the state.
