The Abia State Government Eye Health Management Bureau has raised the alarm over the high rate of glaucoma in the state, saying that 6,381 confirmed cases have been recorded in past 28 months.

The Bureau also warned Abia residents against engaging the services of quack eye doctors, or the use of dangerous eye drops, including urine, to treat as eye ailments.

Speaking at the 2026 Glaucoma Week symposium in Umuahia on Thursday, Administrator of Abia Eye Health Management Bureau, Dr. Betty Emeka- Obasi said the 6,381 figures may increase when more people are diagnosed.

She described glaucoma as an irreversible disease that destroys the eye, saying that it is only preventable through early eye check and continuous examinations.

The administrator regretted that many Abia residents and other Nigerians, especially those in their productive ages, have been affected by glaucoma but said her office is sustaining sensitization to fight the menace.

She appealed to traditional rulers and religious organizations to help in the fight against quack eye doctors and other harmful practices.

Emeka-Obasi further said that 2,000 persons underwent surgeries to restore their sight after the early discovery of their cases, adding that 13,500 free eye tests were carried out in the state.

Also speaking at the event, Abia State Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Uche said the ban on quack eye doctors and unauthorized free medical outreaches are still in force.