The Nigerian online community is in mourning following the death of popular social media user and entrepreneur, Mensah Omolola, widely known as Aunty Esther. She passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025, after a prolonged battle with breast cancer.
Controversy Over Treatment and Faith
Her death concludes a case that sparked intense national conversation about religious belief, medical treatment, and public fundraising. Aunty Esther's situation gained widespread attention when appeals were made on social media to raise funds for her cancer treatment. Nigerians responded generously, donating over N30 million within a few days.
The controversy deepened when it was revealed that Aunty Esther, a Jehovah's Witness, had refused a blood transfusion recommended by her doctors as part of her treatment plan. She cited her religious beliefs as the reason for this decision. This choice became the focal point of a heated debate across social media platforms and beyond.
Wave of Reactions from Public Figures and Netizens
News of her passing was confirmed by media personality #AUNTYMUSE_, who had supported her throughout her treatment journey. The announcement triggered an outpouring of grief and commentary online.
Morris Monye, the former director of mobilisation for the Obidient Movement and a top supporter of Peter Obi, was among the first notable figures to react. He wrote on his verified X handle, "May her soul rest in peace."
Many other Nigerians on X shared their thoughts, with a significant number expressing frustration and sadness over her refusal of the transfusion. User @Bigfendi4l commented, "Aunty Esther has allegedly passed away. Yet again another soul is lost because we choose religious beliefs over common sense."
Another user, @bod_repuplic, tweeted, "One thing I know and believe is that religion has and will continue to do more harm than good in our society."
A Detailed Critique of the Circumstances
Some reactions provided a detailed analysis of the medical timeline. Olufunmilayo Ogunsanya posted a lengthy thread criticizing what he termed "religious extremism." He explained that Aunty Esther's cancer was detected early but she initially refused conventional treatment, opting for traditional herbs instead.
He stated, "This made the breast cancer go untreated and get worse... when she eventually agreed to go to the hospital, she was found to have too low blood levels needing a blood transfusion, and she also turned it down due to indoctrinated religious beliefs."
Ogunsanya further alleged that she was threatened with excommunication from her religious community if she accepted the transfusion, calling it a pivotal factor in her "avoidable untimely unnecessary death."
Amidst the debate, tributes also poured in celebrating her life and hustle. A user, @mayowasam, shared an emotional post describing Aunty Esther as someone who "worked relentlessly despite harsh conditions."
The story of Aunty Esther has left a profound mark, raising critical questions about the intersection of personal faith, medical science, and public intervention in Nigeria.
