Jehovah’s Witness breast cancer patient and social media figure, Mensah Omolola, popularly known as Aunty Esther, has passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer.
The news of her death emerged late Saturday after X user Auntymuse reacted to a post announcing her passing.
Quoting an earlier message that read, “Unfortunately, we lost Aunty Esther. Very sad!”, Auntymuse wrote, “May her soul rest in peace.”
The confirmation triggered an outpouring of grief from Nigerians who had closely followed her health journey on social media.
Shortly after, the X user who coordinated fundraising for her treatment, @Wizarab10, also confirmed the development, writing, “It is well. Peaceful rest to her.”
Aunty Esther’s death comes weeks after her case ignited nationwide debate around religious beliefs, medical ethics, and public fundraising.
Earlier in December, her health condition gained widespread attention after appeals were made online to support her cancer treatment.
Nigerians responded by donating more than ₦30 million within days.
As of December 1, 2025, over ₦30.7 million had reportedly been raised, with a balance of ₦30,776,252 disclosed by the fundraiser.
The controversy surrounding her case began after she declined a blood transfusion recommended by her doctors, citing her faith as a Jehovah’s Witness.
In a series of posts on X, Aunty Esther explained that medical tests showed the cancer was limited to her breast and armpit, adding that her vital organs were unaffected.
She disclosed that while chemotherapy had been advised, doctors insisted her blood level needed to be improved first.
According to her, her family opted for injections and dietary measures rather than transfusion, with plans to commence chemotherapy later.
@Wizarab10 later revealed that Aunty Esther’s church had warned her of possible disciplinary measures, including disfellowship, if she accepted a blood transfusion.
He also explained that doctors presented two treatment options: one involving a blood-supported procedure that was quicker and affordable within the available funds, and another that avoided transfusion but was more expensive and time-consuming.
In line with her religious convictions, Aunty Esther chose the second option.
The decision drew intense criticism on social media, with some questioning the rationale behind public donations when a recommended medical intervention was declined.
Reality TV personality Natacha Akide, also known as Tacha, described the situation as “pure madness” in a post on X.
Despite the backlash, the fundraiser insisted that all donated funds were used strictly for Aunty Esther’s treatment and welfare.
He regularly shared updates on expenses, including food and medical costs, noting that she preferred swallow meals during her treatment.
