Similarly, an Islamic faith healer in northern Nigeria told HRW that he whips patients, leaving scars on their body, as a way to 'treat' them. She also added there aren't enough mental health professionals in the country, making it difficult to access mental health care. And if someone lives in such areas without mental health care, of course, they will find alternatives for care like traditional healers or churches," Dr. Orjinta explained. Under the act, people with mental health conditions are allowed to be detained, even without the provision of medical treatment. I want it to be respectful and accommodate the rights of persons with mental health conditions," she told CNN.

Source: CNN October 10, 2020 16:07 UTC