By Our Correspondent

National News – Jehovah’s Witnesses have updated their blood transfusion rules, allowing members to decide whether their own blood can be used during medical procedures.

While transfusions of another person’s blood remain prohibited, individuals now have the freedom to consent to the use of their own blood in surgeries, tests, or life-saving treatments.

In a video statement, Governing Body member Gerrit Lösch explained that the change aims to give Christians personal discretion.

He noted that biblical teachings do not restrict the use of one’s own blood in medical care.

Historically, Witnesses abstain from blood to respect its symbolic significance as life, citing passages from Genesis, Leviticus, Deuteronomy, and Acts.

The clarification comes amid public debate in Nigeria following the death of cancer patient and social media personality Mensah Omolola, known as AuntieEsther, who declined a blood transfusion in line with her faith.

Her case, which drew widespread attention, highlighted the tension between religious beliefs and medical advice.

The new guidance allows Witnesses to choose whether their blood is removed, stored, and returned during surgery.

Jehovah’s Witnesses have long employed bloodless medical techniques, including cell salvage, heart-lung machines, and dialysis, ensuring high-quality care without violating their beliefs.

The recent update reinforces that members can make informed choices about their own blood while adhering to their religious principles.

Lösch emphasized that each member must decide individually, reflecting both spiritual obedience and modern medical possibilities.

This development marks a significant shift, balancing faith with advances in medical care and patient autonomy.

By maintaining the ban on donor blood while permitting self-donation, the religion continues to uphold its doctrines while offering practical flexibility for life-saving treatments.