Tradition of Same Gender Marriage in Igboland, Nigeria

Tradition of Same Gender Marriage in Igboland, Nigeria

Bill Quigley

23 Jun 2009

by Leo Igwe

Black homophobes often invoke “African” culture to buttress their arguments against gay rights, including the right to marry. But, according to the author, a native of southern Nigeria, the Igbo culture has long nurtured same-sex couples consisting of "woman-husband" and "woman-wife." The practice is entirely indigenous. “This marriage practice pre-dates Christianity and the so- called western culture which most people today blame for all the moral and cultural wrongs in Africa.

Tradition of Same Gender Marriage in Igboland, Nigeria
by Leo Igwe

This article originally appeared in the Nigeria Tribune.

“We should not rush to deny this, or pretend it does not exist or just sweep it under the carpet.”

One of the contentious issues in the debate over homosexuality and same sex marriage is whether a marriage between persons of the same gender is totally alien to African culture and tradition. Those opposing same sex marriage have continued to argue that same gender union is foreign to Africa. On the contrary, I have tried to draw their attention to the fact that there is a strain of the same gender marriage in African tradition, particularly in Igboland. And that we should not rush to deny this, or pretend it does not exist or just sweep it under the carpet in the quest to establish that same gender marriage is alien to the African continent, and must be banned.

I hail from Mbaise in Imo State in Southern Nigeria. Traditionally, in my community, marriage is taken to be a union between a man and a woman as the case may be. But there are circumstances where a marriage between a woman and a woman is permissible.

In a situation where a woman has no son or no child, if the husband dies, it is culturally allowed for her to marry a wife. And in this case, she becomes the husband. Like in every case of marriage, this woman goes out, inquires and gets a wife of her choice. She pays her dowry and fulfills other traditional rites as it is done when a man is marrying a woman.

“Like in every case of marriage, this woman goes out, inquires and gets a wife of her choice.”

After that, the woman brings her "wife" home and they start living together as "husband" and "wife." Nobody frowns at it. To have children, both the "woman-husband" and "woman-wife" will agree to allow a man from the same village or neighboring town to sleep with the wife.

The children born by the wife bear the family name of the woman-husband, not that of the man responsible for the pregnancy. I want to add here that the men who sleep with such wives in most cases are married men. And normally it is regarded as immoral, in fact it is a taboo for a married man to sleep with or "father" children from another woman. But in this case an act normally taken to be immoral is allowed.

This is a situation where people are permitted to break taboos and deviate from traditions. This marriage practice pre-dates Christianity and the so- called western culture which most people today blame for all the moral and cultural wrongs in Africa. The same gender marriage is still practiced till date. In other words, there are some families today in Igboland where women are both husbands and wives, fathers and mothers.

There are some homes where woman-husbands are living happily with their woman-wives, though there are not many such families or marriages. Such unconventional marriages and families are in the minority. The fact is that they exist. The fact is that they are part of the local tradition and culture. They are not imports from the West. And this has in no way undermined social cohesion, public order and morality or family values.

“There are some families today in Igboland where women are both husbands and wives, fathers and mothers.”

Some people have tried to argue that this is not really a case of gender marriage because a man comes in to impregnate the wife. But, traditionally, it is the case and it is known as such. It is a case where a woman marries a woman.
The man who impregnates the wife does not come into the picture at all. He has no family responsibility. His duty is only to supply sperm. The family is responsible for the woman-husband and wife.

Some say that same gender unions destroy family values and undermine the upbringing of children. It should be emphasized that children in this case are brought up in an environment where both "parents" are females. And they grow up to be normal children. Some say because child bearing is involved, then it is not same gender marriage. But my response is this: whether for procreation or for pleasure, it is same gender marriage. And it is the couples, not the state that decides whether to marry for procreation and or for pleasure or for any other purpose they deem fit.

Unfortunately, most Nigerians think that same gender marriage is antithetical to procreation. It is not. In fact same gender unions as in this case enrich family values. There have been instances where a partner in a same gender relationship wants children, and goes ahead to have them.

Because of the secrecy, privacy and hypocrisy that go with sexual expression, no one can really say if these female partners have or do not have sex with each other. But like all couples they live together and run their families. But today, things are changing.

“Same gender unions as in this case enrich family values.”

Individuals are becoming more open, more assertive and expressive with their sexual and marriage choices, desires, orientations and identities. The sexual and marriage dynamics are changing rapidly. And Africans must make the necessary social, cultural and legal adjustments in response to - and to accommodate - these changes.

Leo Igwe is the executive secretary of the Nigerian Humanist Movement.  The Nigerian Humanist Movement is an association of non-religious people who seek a rational, constructive approach to human affairs. It offers a positive alternative to all religious and dogmatic creeds. It acts to uphold and defend the human rights of humanists and of the general public. It supports via legislation any other democratic and constitutional means to improve social conditions. It supports the widest conception of education and enlightenment for the better understanding and enjoyment of human life

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NENWE -ON-LINE(Nol) UNIVERSITY NEW PROGRAMS ANNOUNCEMENT.

The NOL Board of Directors, and the NOLU  Management, are pleased to announce the introduction of two new programs in the lifelong learning programs of the University.

1. NKORO DISCUSSION
The "Nkoro Discussion" will be anchored by Prof. Sai Nwenya, and  moderated by Chief Charles O Chukwubike .

Firstly, the program focuses on topics and questions from the  remote and contemporary history of Nenwe and the Igbos.

Some other  discussions in this program will have the flavours of the discussions that were, and  still being held in the Nenwe and Igbo traditional societies. It aims to lend some clarity to the not easily understood customs and traditions of the Nenwe people, while taking a fresh look at the commonly observed cultural practices also of the Nenwe people. The program also hopes to draw the discussion ideas and topics from its worldwide audience. Please feel free to participate with your presence, questions, or suggestions of topics and/or ideas for discussion or how the program can be improved upon.
It will debut on Saturday, October 26, 2024 @ 5 PM, Nigeria local time, at the NOLU virtual auditorium.

2. "IRRECONCILABLE DIFFERENCES"
When communication between people, especially between closely related pairs,  breaks down, irretrievably, it does come with some costs, both tangible and intangible.
This new program aims to take the university audience through important flashpoints with the view on recognizing when you and your pair have arrived at each of those flashpoints and when reconciliation could still be available and on the table.
Engr. Cornelius Okwudiri Ani , is the sole anchor. He will be broadcasting from Atlanta, in the State of Georgia, The United States.
The Program has been scheduled to debut on Monday, November 4, 2024, @ the virtual auditorium of the NOLU. It will be simultaneously broadcast on the NOL general platform. Its start time is 5 PM, Nigeria local time.
These two programs are respectively approved to run for a term of six months from its debut. Each will be subject to a possible mutually agreed renewal at the expiration of each term.
The University looks forward to your characteristically strong patronage and enduring support for these two new programs.
Thank you.
Signed

The NOLU Management

NENWEONLINE@GMAIL.COM

Teen suicide: What parents need to know

Teen suicide: What parents need to know

Know the risk factors for teen suicide, the warning signs and the steps you can take to protect your teen.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Is your teen at risk of suicide? Some things, such as medical, family and social problems, can make some teenagers more likely to take their own lives. Learn how to tell if your teen might be at risk for considering suicide. And find out where to turn for help and treatment.

What makes teens prone to suicide?

Many teens who attempt or die by suicide have a mental health illness. As a result, they have trouble coping with the stress of being a teen. They might have a very hard time dealing with rejection, failure, breakups, school troubles or family problems.

And they might not be able to see that they can turn their lives around. They also might not fully understand that suicide is a permanent response, not a solution, to a short-term problem.

What are the risk factors for teen suicide?

It is important to say that teens often cope with stressful medical, physical and life events without attempting self-harm or suicide.

But it's a good idea to be aware of certain risk factors. Medical or physical issues that can raise the risk of suicide include:

• A mental health illness such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or oppositional defiant disorder.
• Changes related to puberty or a long-term illness.
• A substance use disorder.

Life circumstances that can raise the risk include:

• Family history of mood disorders, suicide or actions that could lead to suicide.
• Being exposed to the suicide of a family member or friend.
• History of physical or sexual abuse, or being exposed to violence or bullying.
• Access to means of suicide, such as guns or medicines.
• Losing close friends or family members, or having conflicts with them.
• Being gender diverse with risk factors such as bullying and family or social conflicts.
• Being adopted.

Children who have attempted suicide in the past also are at greater risk.

What are the warning signs that a teen might be suicidal?

Warning signs that a teen might be thinking about suicide include:

• Talking or writing about suicide. For example, making statements such as "I'm going to kill myself," or "I won't be a problem for you much longer."
• Using more and more alcohol or drugs.
• Feeling trapped, hopeless or helpless about a situation.
• Doing risky or self-destructive things.
• Giving away personal items for no clear, logical reason.

Some other warning signs might seem like typical teenage behavior:

• Changing normal routine, including eating or sleeping patterns.
• Becoming less social and wanting to be alone.
• Having mood swings.

Suicidal teens also might have personality changes or become very anxious or agitated when they experience some of the warning signs listed above.

What should I do if I suspect my teen is suicidal?

If you think your teen is in danger right now, call 911, your local emergency number or a suicide hotline. In the United States, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It's available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. Services are free and confidential. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. has a Spanish language phone line at 888-628-9454 (toll-free).

If you suspect that your teen might be thinking about suicide, talk to your teen right away. Don't be afraid to use the word "suicide." Talking about suicide won't plant ideas for self-harm in a child's head.

Ask how your teenager is feeling and listen. Don't dismiss your teen's problems. Instead, reassure your child of your love. Remind your teen that together, you can work through whatever is going on.

Also, seek medical help for your teen. Ask your teen's health care provider to guide you.

Your teen's health care provider will want to get a sense of what's going on from sources such as:

• The teen.
• Parents or guardians.
• Other people close to the teen.
• School reports.
• Past medical or mental health exams.

Teens who are feeling suicidal often need the help of a specialist. This can be a psychiatrist, psychologist or other licensed mental health professional.

You may find a health care professional who treats mental health in children. Or you might find one who will want to talk with the teen and parents, or the whole family.

In some cases, it may be hard for caregivers to keep a suicidal teen safe at home. The teen's provider or mental health professional may recommend treatment in a hospital or intensive outpatient program. Or they might suggest calling local crisis response services for help.

What can I do to prevent teen suicide?

You can take steps to help protect your teen. For example:

• Talk about mental health and suicide. Don't wait for your teen to come to you. Ask what's wrong if your teen is sad, anxious, depressed or seems to be struggling. Listen and offer your support.
• Pay attention. Teens who think about suicide often show warning signs. Listen to what your child says and watch how your child acts. Never disregard threats of suicide as teenage drama.
• Discourage too much alone time. Encourage your teen to spend time with supportive friends and family.
• Monitor and talk about social media use. Keep an eye on your teen's social media accounts. Social media can give teens valuable support, but it can expose them to hurtful things too. That includes bullying, rumor spreading, unrealistic views of other people's lives and peer pressure. If your teen is hurt or upset by social media posts or messages, encourage your teen to talk to you or to another trusted adult or teacher. Feeling connected and supported at school can have a strong protective effect.
• Encourage a healthy lifestyle. Help your teen eat well, exercise and get regular sleep.
• Support the treatment plan. If your teen is getting treatment for suicidal behavior, it might take time to feel better. Help your teen follow the treatment plan. Also, encourage your teen to take part in activities that can help boost confidence and healthy connections with others.
• Monitor medicines. Some teens might have more suicidal thoughts or behavior when taking medicines called antidepressants. This isn't common. But the risk is higher in the first few weeks after starting a medicine or when a dose is changed. Still, antidepressants are more likely to lower suicide risk in the long run, because they can improve mood. If your teen has suicidal thoughts while taking an antidepressant, call the doctor right away or get emergency help.
• Safely store guns, alcohol and medicines. Access to means of suicide can play a role if a teen is already suicidal.

If you're worried about your teen, have an honest talk with your child and get help right away.

source

Rising Suicide Cases in Nigeria: Causes and Solutions

National statistics, have shown a noticeable increase in the cases of suicide across Nigeria. People continue to jump off the Lagos Third Mainland Bridge into the Lagoon, or ingest ‘Sniper’, a disinfectant and all purpose cleaner, turned into a  popular and easily available poison, to commit suicide. In a country where suicide is erroneously associated with spiritual causes, plus a paucity of psychiatric experts, curbing the malaise is undoubtedly challenging. Leading Psychiatric expert, Dr Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri, Onikepo Braithwaite, Kede Aihie and Abdul Ed Malik examine why both the young and the old are taking their lives, and possible solutions to curb the scourge      

Suicide: The Fourth Largest Cause of Death in the World

Dr Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri

Rising Number of Suicides

The recent deaths of Bimbo Ogbonna, Adetutu Adedokun, and Adedoyin Ayinde  have raised the question: Why is suicide becoming more common in Nigeria? And what can be done to reverse the trends? Of course, these are a few cases known to the public due to their widely publicised deaths. 

In addition to the 703 000 suicides per year, many more people attempt suicide.

Every suicide is a tragedy that has a lasting impact on the survivors, including the families, communities, and entire nations.

Suicide is a common cause of mortality, that affects people of all ages. It is the fourth largest cause of death worldwide, among those aged 15 to 29. This is a global issue that affects all parts of the world, not only high-income nations. In fact, low- and middle-income nations such as Nigeria, accounted for more than 77% of all suicides worldwide in 2019. 

Mental Illness & Other Reasons for Suicide

Concern among stakeholders and officials regarding depression and the drive to kill oneself, which are becoming more widespread in Nigeria and are currently manifesting in a rise in the number of suicides, is growing.

Although there is a strong correlation between mental disorders and suicide in high-income countries, particularly depression and alcohol use disorders, many suicides occur impulsively in times of crisis due to a breakdown in coping mechanisms for life’s stresses, such as chronic pain and illness, financial difficulties, and relationship breakups. 

The World Health Organisation’s findings in 2020, indicated that about 30% of Nigerians have one form of mental illness or the other. With the Covid-19 pandemic, the security situation in the country, and other social issues such as unemployment, economic issues, poverty, financial challenges, insecurity among others. it is believed that these figures have gone up significantly.

As a Psychiatrist, I have had to attend to patients who are suicidal, and one common thing they admit to as survivors, is the show of regret. This means they deserve to receive counselling, therapy, and other necessary support, because most people that tried to kill themselves never wanted to die; they just wanted the pain to go away. 

Low Psychiatrist-to-Population Ratio in Nigeria 

The population of Nigeria is currently estimated to be about 200 million people, but there are inadequate numbers of available medical professionals to cater to the health needs of the nation. The situation is even direr for mental health, with a psychiatrist-to-population ratio of 1:1,000,000 Nigerians. This roughly translates to one psychiatrist, for every one million people in Nigeria.

The psychiatrist-patient ratio in Nigeria is therefore, dismal, thereby widening the mental health treatment gap. Furthermore, the majority of available psychiatrists in the country are based in the urban and southern parts of Nigeria. There is a massive shortage of psychiatrists in the country, especially outside the aforementioned areas, and the psychiatrist-patient ratio is widely off the mark.

What Suicidal People Require

Indeed, what suicidal people really need is effective treatment, counselling, and assistance, not punishment, as attempting suicide is a criminal offence in Nigeria, under Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act, and carries a penalty of up to one year in prison.

In as much as we know that family members, relatives and religious leaders do help their loved ones when in distress, managing a suicidal patient requires techniques that those who are desirous of helping lack. For this, schools, government agencies such as LCC, religious and corporate organisations should have mental health first aid training for staff and Human Resources team members, to be better equipped to help is situations such as this.

Advice

As we prepare for the 2023 general elections, I strongly advocate that the National Assembly and the Presidency, where the Mental Health Bill lies now, should receive urgent attention to be passed into law as an Act. Also, we need to make sure that the integration of mental health into primary healthcare, is fully done and fully prosecuted. The National Health Authority Act needs to cover more mental health conditions, and include in their formulary the newer available medications in the country. This will also serve as a remedy. for universal mental health coverage investment.

The Road to Suicide

Onikepo Braithwaite 

Definition of Suicide

Suicide is “the action of killing oneself intentionally”. Black’s Law Dictionary defines suicide as “the wilful and voluntary act of a person who understands the physical nature of the act, and intends by it to accomplish the result of self-destruction”, “the deliberate termination of one’s existence while in the possession and enjoyment of his mental faculties”. It seems that two of the key elements of suicide in this definition, are the voluntariness and being in one’s right mind. However, the argument is that, a person in their right mind, who isn’t suffering from one mental health issue or the other like Depression, is unlikely to intentionally or voluntarily kill themselves. Self-killing by an insane person, a person not of sound mind, is not suicide. Insurance Co. v Moore, 34 Mich 41.

My Friend’s Older Sister

One of the most common reasons why people commit suicide, is Depression, a mental illness which comes in various forms, some of its causes may be unknown, or due to heartbreak, bereavement, financial crisis, and so on. A person can get so depressed and feels so helpless, that he/she starts to lose the will to live, and sees death as a better option.  

As a child, suicide did not seem to be a common occurrence. The only person whom I ever knew that committed suicide, was my friend’s older sister. I will never forget the unfortunate incident. She ingested the disinfectant cleaner, ‘Izal’ (which today now seems to have been replaced by ‘Sniper’, a powerful disinfectant and all purpose cleaner), and by the time assistance reached her, it was too late. She had successfully killed herself. I’m not quite sure, whether anyone knew the reason why she  took such a drastic step and ended her life in her teens. No one was really encouraged to talk about it. 

Sniper & Third Mainland Bridge

However, today, in Nigeria, suicide seems to be becoming rather commonplace. These days, Third Mainland Bridge, from where people plunge themselves into the Lagos Lagoon, is apparently the choice location for this dastardly act. There was the case of Dr Allwell Orji, a medical doctor. He had instructed his driver to park the car on the Bridge. He then jumped into the Lagoon. His body was found a few days later. Though the reason for his suicide may be connected with depression, several others, including two ladies who were unsuccessful in their suicide attempts on the Bridge (one of the  ladies was 51 years old in 2017 when she made the attempt), were pushed to this point by indebtedness. The two unsuccessful ladies were upset that they were fished out of the Lagoon and were rescued in the nick of time, as they knew that their financial problems would still persist. The 51 year old lady was instructed by the Magistrate whom she appeared before, to submit herself for psychiatric tests.

A couple of weeks ago, purportedly after a heated argument with her fiancée, a young lady jumped off third mainland bridge and successfully committed suicide, while a young mother of two was said to have ingested Sniper and killed herself, as a result of marital problems. It is a known fact that, in Nigeria, many married women are going through hell; they are ill-treated,  emotionally abused and disrespected by their husbands, some even beaten to death by abusive husbands. They are however, sometimes encouraged to stay on in horrible marriages by their families members, possibly because the husbands are good financial providers, or by their churches/pastors who tell them that God hates divorce, so, they should endure and keep praying to God for their husbands to change; all this while the women get progressively depressed! Suicide has become so commonplace these days, with the young and not-so-young, that most of us can say that we personally know people who have killed themselves. Why should it be so? 

With the youngsters who commit suicide, they may also suffer from mental health issues. But, could it also be the permissiveness of the world today, that people can do pretty much whatever they like to be happy, including take their own lives to be free, that has spurred them on? I do not have an answer. As youngsters, we were taught that suicide was a sin that God would not forgive, and those who killed themselves would surely go to hell. That position doesn’t seem to hold any water today.

Nigerians are Depressed: Some Causes & Statistics 

It is obvious that today, the reasons for suicide in Nigeria may not only be love or heartbreak; but, mental illness, drug use, and financial difficulties/crisis – not being able to meet up with one’s basic responsibilities, indebtedness, the prevailing harsh economic conditions that exist in the country. At least three of my friends confessed to me that they contemplated suicide at some point in time of their lives, due to the financial crisis they were facing at the time. 

In 2016, the World Happiness Report, showed that Nigeria had dropped drastically from its 78th position to 103 in the world happiness ranking. In 2022, we are now in 118th position out of 146 countries, meaning that as the years have gone by, we have become progressively unhappy. As of 2015, Nigerians were the 2nd happiest people in Africa, by 2017 we had dropped to the 6th position; today, Nigeria does not feature among the first ten happiest countries in Africa! 

Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act provides that “Any person who attempts to kill himself is guilty of a misdemeanour, and is liable to imprisonment”. Those who fail in their suicide attempts, may therefore face prosecution, and a 1 year stay in a vile Nigerian prison, if convicted (which will only worsen their mental health, since prison conditions in Nigeria are deplorable, one of the worst in the world). As if imprisonment/punishment is what they need! A person that is desperate enough to attempt to end their lives, obviously needs help, not imprisonment. Personally, I find the provision to be rather ludicrous; it evinces the fact that the Nigerian State itself, does not really understand mental health issues and how to deal with them.  

Furthermore, in these parts, talking about mental health issues is almost a taboo, let alone admitting to suffering from depression, schizophrenia or being bipolar; people are ashamed to admit to any form of mental ill-health, unless it’s a headache or migraine! Therefore, many suffer in silence, under so much pressure and go untreated until they explode. We only recognise that all is not well with an individual when things become extreme, when we see them running around the streets in a state of undress, looking rough or talking gibberish.

Some Suicidal Signs

Though suicidal people may keep their intention to themselves, a few of the warning signs may be mood swings, isolation at home and general withdrawal from society, change of habits like eating and sleeping (some may begin to stay up through the night while the world is asleep, thinking all sorts of bad thoughts and giving them the opportunity to fester, with no one around to disabuse their minds), talk of feelings of hopelessness, increase in alcohol consumption or drug taking, saying things like “Gbogbo nkan ma ti su mi” (I am tired of everything), “I wish I was never born”, putting their affairs in order, and contacting people to say goodbye. A person contemplating suicide may also talk about death a lot, about heaven and hell, sound cynical and pessimistic, and give away prized possessions, which under normal circumstances they would not consider parting with. 

How to Assist a Suicidal Person

Once you may have recognised suicidal signs in an individual, take them seriously. Be a good listener, especially in order to try to discover as much as possible, what is going on in the mind of such an individual, and what actions they may be planning to take. Let the suicidal party know that you care, and you want to help and support them. Let such a person know that the feelings of hopelessness and committing suicide, can pass, and advice them to seek professional help, even though here in Nigeria there is a paucity of mental health professionals. Try to point out better alternatives to suicide. Unfortunately, Nigeria does not seem to have proper infrastructure set up for psychiatric counselling, though in 2017, Lagos State Government recognising that there is an increase in the rate of suicide, established some help lines, so that people can seek assistance. I do not know whether these lines are still functional, and if they are, how successful they have been in curbing suicide in Lagos.

Conclusion 

Can someone in their right mind, just decide that they are tired of life and just decide to end it? Or are such decisions taken as a result of stress, desperation or mental illness, which precludes a person from being rational? I do not have the answers. But, I know that Mental Health Illness like Depression, is simply a sickness of the mind, just as Malaria or Cancer is a sickness of the body. Americans visit their therapists on a regular basis, to talk things through. The sooner Africans stop attaching a stigma to mental health issues, the easier it will be for sufferers to seek proper professional help, instead of living in unending emotional pain which may eventually push them to suicide. This could save many lives. Maybe it is even the fact that most people are ashamed or unwilling to seek professional help, that has discouraged many of our medical practitioners from choosing to specialise in psychiatry and psychology.

Onikepo Braithwaite, Editor, This Day Lawyer

Suicide, Now a National Scourge 

Kede Aihie 

The number of suicide cases reported in Nigeria are getting a bit high, and therefore, require national attention. The death of a young lady, who tragically jumped into the Lagos lagoon about two weeks ago, should make mental health issues  a topic for regular discussion and conversation in Nigeria.

What is driving people to take their lives, especially young people? I am not a psychiatrist or psychologist, so my article is geared towards having a conversation on this issue, which seems to be a taboo subject among Nigerians, indeed, among Africans.

Sweden & Statistics 

The cause of suicide vary from one  society to another. For example, Sweden has a high suicide rate, studies have shown that “suicide-bereaved individuals may suffer increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) due to traumatic grief”.

In Sweden, suicide is one of the most common single causes of death. With a population of 10 million people, approximately 1,500 individuals die by suicide every year (National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention, 2019). Every death to suicide has a ripple effect, and is estimated to deeply affect at least 6 to 14 relatives and close friends (Clark and Goldney, 2000; Jones and Meier, 2011; Jordan and McIntosh, 2011).

According to World Health Organisation (WHO), suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in people aged 15 to 19 years (male and female). It also stated that, over 700,000 people die due to suicide annually.

Causes of Suicide in Nigeria

The major cause of suicide in Nigeria, seems to be tied to mental health issues and depression. Why will a young man or woman end their lives over issues like rejection, broken hearts, poor academic performance or some unexplained reasons? The challenge here is that not many studies have been done in Nigeria, to give accurate data on the number of deaths. The law is also punitive in Nigeria, people who attempt suicides are criminalised, charged to court for attempted suicide.

In Nigeria, suicide is not a crime (no brainer), but attempted suicide is. Section 327 in the Criminal Code Act (which applies to Southern Nigeria) states that:

“Any person who attempts to kill himself is guilty of a misdemeanour, and is liable to imprisonment for one year.”

Similarly, Section 231 of the Penal Code Act (applicable to Northern Nigeria) asserts that:

“Whoever attempts to commit suicide and does any act towards the commission of such offence, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year or with fine or with both”. I think these laws should either be removed, or amended to reflect the social impact it has on survivors, who shouldn’t be stigmatised or punished, but require professional help instead.

Suggestions 

My suggestion for solutions is that, when in difficulty seek help, talk to a professional, trusted friend or family member or even your clergy. They will, in most cases, show compassion. In my book Rising Above Challenges, I dealt with the issue of Wellbeing (Chapter 8) and shared my conversation with medical doctors on the mental health issues facing the African and Black people in the UK, and by extension Africa/Nigeria. The major take away, is creating awareness

Hopefully, this conversation can be taken forward, as a national discourse.

Kede Aihie, Lawyer, Author, Publisher of The Nigerian Magazine in London

Rising Incidences of Suicide: The Monsters Within

Abdul Ed Malik 

In recent times, the plethora of mysterious deaths and suicides has taken a macabre lead in the worry of health and social challenges faced by the nation.

The ascendancy of suicide and suicidal thoughts, as a welcome shortcut to personal problems faced by both young and old people, is cause for studied analysis by psychologists, psychiatrist professionals and even faith-based organisations like Churches, Mosques and community centres.

Causes

Look at even our military personnel, suffering from PTSD. They have seen too much human misery and deaths, that go into their brains. Endless insurgency and military campaigns, without the corresponding needed holidays to break the cycle of violence that they witness daily are some of the things they grapple with.

This unfortunate and worrisome scenario, can be rightly compartmentalised into medical and society. I mean or rather, I’m talking about clinical depression caused by inadequate medical attention and pressures built up by the demands of the society.

Generally, a cursory layman appropriation of the problem would reveal that, with more advance in technology, there’s a concomitant pressure build-up that many people are not able to handle within their limited means of access and mental capacity. It’s a multi-faceted malaise.

Many people are struggling with drug addiction, especially overdoses on common OTC sleeping pills after suffering emotional or marital disappointment. Others are suffering intense financial pressures due to rising costs of daily living, peer pressure and all kinds of disillusionment. 

The foregoing scenario is a really gloomy picture, when one looks at the attention and concerted efforts required to reverse or slow down the trend, in the context of the resources that the Government allocates to undertake a comprehensive study and proffer solution, or even provide more safety nets for the vulnerable.

But, from a non-medical point of view, I think society is growing too far apart, due to the influence of social media. You find out that many people have large social media followership, but, in real life, have no real friends. So, everything is just surreal, with no reality of any form.

Let me tell you something, traditionally, there were many avenues for fellowship such as churches, mosques, town’s meetings and events, and just a communal spirit. People looked out for their family members and others. But, do you know that, nowadays, that many do not even know their neighbour has been sick for months until they see the corpse being moved out, that’s when they ask what happened. It’s become a conglomeration of fake life and me, me, me with no care for others.

Suggestion 

Not to take much of your time or space, I think or rather, I want to canvass that the religious bodies and faith-based organisations do more outreach programs to discourage the idea of anyone taking his own life, no matter the degree of disappointment or disillusionment. People should be encouraged to build real relationships, check on each other from time to time. Believe it or not, a simple ‘Hi’ or ‘Hey, Buddy I was thinking of you’ is enough sometimes, to change the course of a person’s negative thoughts.

Sometime ago, I read that a Psychiatrist shot himself because of pressure of the job. Think of that. It’s pressure everywhere. It’s time the health professionals and religious bodies, and even lifestyle consultants, enlighten us on more safe means to let off the pressures. 

The parents have a lot to do too, by taking time to bond with their children and wards, to understand their crowded vision of life and help them to make good choices. See, there’s blowing up everywhere. May God help us.

Abdul Ed Malik, Abuja

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60 LESSONS THAT LIFE TAUGHT ME By Catherine Obiamaka Maduagwu PhD

NEW BOOK  RECOMMENDATION:

60 LESSONS THAT LIFE TAUGHT ME By Catherine Obiamaka Maduagwu PhD 

 This book is highly  recommended  for a complete sane development of the human being towards  success and happy living . I recommend it for everyone, especially  the  younger ones who could use it as a vademecum for the construction of a strong,balanced, and successful  personality.

Charlie.mbc@gmail.com 

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day ;19thJune

On World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, it's crucial to highlight key facts about sickle cell disease (SCD)

What is Sickle Cell Disease?

   Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. The most common form is sickle cell anaemia.

Genetics

   SCD is inherited when a child receives two sickle cell genes, one from each parent. Those with only one gene are carriers and have sickle cell trait, usually without symptoms.

Symptoms:

   SCD causes red blood cells to become hard and crescent-shaped, leading to severe pain, infections, and complications such as stroke and organ damage.

Prevalence:

   It affects millions worldwide, particularly people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian ancestry.

Diagnosis:

   New-born screening can diagnose SCD early, enabling timely intervention and management.

Treatment:

   While there is no universal cure, treatments like hydroxyurea, pain management, blood transfusions, and bone marrow transplants can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Challenges

   Patients face physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Awareness and education are vital for reducing stigma and improving care.

Research and Hope

   Advances in gene therapy and other research bring hope for a potential cure. Continued support for research is essential.

Raising awareness and understanding these facts can lead to better support, treatment, and ultimately, a cure for those affected by sickle cell disease. Together, we can make a difference.

#WorldSickleCellDay #sicklecell #WorldSickleCellAwarenessDay

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Pancreatic Cancer: Insights From Clinical Cases

Potential Early Signs of Pancreatic Cancer: Insights From Clinical Cases

Pancreatic cancer can present with symptoms often associated with other illnesses—following the trail of such signs early on could help with early diagnosis

Pancreatic cancer is a highly fatal disease, its early signs often overlooked, resulting in many patients being diagnosed in the advanced stages. To raise public awareness, we have explored actual patient cases to help identify the early signs of pancreatic cancer.

The Elusiveness of Pancreatic Cancer

Due to the elusive nature of its initial symptoms, pancreatic cancer often goes undetected in its early stages. By the time it is diagnosed, the cancer has already spread to surrounding tissues or other organs, making it an advanced-stage disease that cannot be surgically removed. Treatment for advanced pancreatic cancer includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, which aim to manage symptoms and slow cancer progression, but these approaches do not offer a cure. Surgery remains a potential treatment option for pancreatic cancer when it is detected very early, in a localized state.

The combined percentage of all patients living five years after diagnosis is only 12 percent. Patients diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer typically survive for around one year post-diagnosis. For those diagnosed before the tumor has grown extensively or spread, the average survival time is three to 3.5 years. About 10 percent of patients who receive an early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer can be cured after treatment.

Early detection of pancreatic cancer is vital for treatment and prognosis.

Case Analyses of Early Symptoms

The following four clinical cases illustrate the potential early signs of pancreatic cancer.

Case 1: Symptoms Resembling Diabetes

Mr. Lee, 58 years old, had previously been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and was undergoing treatment. Despite having no family history and maintaining regular lifestyle habits, he suddenly developed symptoms of diabetes, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and significant weight loss.

Later, he came to me seeking treatment for lower back pain, hoping to alleviate it through traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) acupuncture. However, during the treatment, I noticed that he had very mild jaundice, so I suggested that he see an internal medicine doctor.

After examination, it was found that Mr. Lee did not have diabetes or a herniated lumbar disc, but rather early-stage pancreatic cancer. His pancreatic tumor was close to the gallbladder, which caused him to develop jaundice.

A review published in BMJ in 2015 found a strong linear dose-response relationship between fasting blood sugar concentration and the incidence of pancreatic cancer in the range of prediabetes and diabetes. For every 0.56 millimoles per liter increase in fasting blood sugar concentration, the incidence of pancreatic cancer increased by 14 percent.

This case emphasizes the need to be vigilant if a middle-aged person suddenly develops symptoms of diabetes without any family history or unhealthy lifestyle habits, as this could be an early sign of pancreatic cancer.

Case 2: Fatigue and Depression

Ms. Wong, 45 years old, was cheerful and enjoyed a harmonious family life with no health issues. However, she began experiencing fatigue and emotional lows, lacking the energy for any activities. At times, she felt deeply saddened, even becoming tearful.

Suspecting she might be experiencing symptoms of depression, she visited a psychiatrist. Upon examination, it was confirmed that she exhibited all the typical signs of depression—reduced appetite, weight loss, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, lack of interest in activities, and insomnia. Therefore, she was prescribed antidepressant medication, however, there was no improvement. She also tried psychotherapy, but the psychiatrist could not identify any specific psychological cause.

Some of Ms. Wong’s symptoms raised our concern. She often experienced abdominal pain, which, although not severe, radiated to the surrounding areas. Additionally, she developed severe acid reflux and experienced bloating in the abdomen.

In such cases, it is important to consider the possibility of other factors causing depression, one of which may be a tumor. The presence of a tumor can lead to the production of inflammatory cytokines. This can, in turn, affect the metabolism of neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and adrenaline, both of which play a role in regulating mood. Furthermore, tumors can activate certain neuroinflammatory cells, leading to a rapid increase in stress response affecting the brain and adrenal glands, thereby raising the risk of depression.

After a series of examinations, Ms. Wong was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Fortunately, it was discovered relatively early, and she underwent a partial resection surgery, which successfully treated her cancer.

A study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry in 2019 indicated that clinically diagnosed depression and anxiety were associated with a higher incidence of cancer, poorer cancer survival rates, and higher cancer-specific mortality rates. Another study suggested that pancreatic cancer patients were most likely to have concurrent depression and anxiety, and there appeared to be a biological connection. In some patients, depression may be a precursor to pancreatic cancer.

This suggests that when someone experiences unexplained depression, particularly if accompanied by digestive symptoms and a family history of hereditary diseases, the possibility of having a tumor should be considered.

Case 3: Diarrhea and Constipation

Mr. Wang, 60 years old, had been in good health. However, he recently developed chronic diarrhea, with occasional constipation. The presence of both diarrhea and constipation indicates irritable bowel syndrome, a condition often associated with mood swings and psychological stress. However, Mr. Wang did not report any emotional issues.

Therefore, we advised him to undergo further examination to investigate any other potential issues. During a colonoscopy, a localized obstruction in his intestines was found, caused by a tumor originating from the pancreas. Given the early detection, prompt surgical intervention followed by additional treatments is expected to yield a favorable prognosis.

Chronic gastrointestinal issues should be taken seriously if they persist without improvement. It is particularly crucial to observe if the stool is black, as it could indicate potential bleeding or anemia, warranting closer attention to the possibility of a tumor.

Case 4: Unhealthy Diet

Mr. Zhang was obese due to his longstanding unhealthy eating habits, which included a preference for fried foods, sugary drinks, meats, and sweets, as well as prolonged periods of inactivity. Recognizing the health risks associated with obesity, he decided to improve his diet. After starting a healthier diet, he experienced rapid weight loss. However, he noticed that he had become somewhat underweight after some time. He also experienced a decreased appetite, pronounced fatigue, low mood, and decreased energy levels. Mr. Zhang went to the hospital for tests but found no specific reasons for his symptoms.

After experiencing sudden abdominal cramps, he went to the emergency room, where a CT scan revealed a pancreatic mass, later diagnosed as pancreatic cancer.

One study indicated that obesity may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer through various mechanisms, including inflammation, insulin resistance, and changes in the microbiome.

Long-standing unhealthy habits may increase the risk of developing tumors. Recognizing the need for lifestyle changes sooner rather than later is essential. Of course, other genetic factors should also be taken into consideration.

Symptoms Summary for Potential Pancreatic Cancer

The cases above remind us to stay vigilant about the possibility of pancreatic cancer if the following symptoms arise:

Sudden increases in blood sugar

Unexplained depression

Rapid weight loss

Unexplained fatigue

Abdominal or back pain

Persistent gastrointestinal issues

Early detection and treatment are crucial in fighting pancreatic cancer. I hope this article serves as a helpful reminder to everyone.

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