FEATURES
The crisis rocking the Labour Party (LP) has taken a new twist as the embattled National Treasurer of the party, Ms. Oluchi Oparah, has asked the National Chairman of the party, Mr. Julius Abure, to step down for unhindered investigation.
Oparah, who was recently suspended by the National Working Committee (NWC), said he needed to step aside to allow a transparent investigation into the allegations of the finances of the party.
Oparah spoke in an interview following the dismissal of her allegation that Abure misappropriated N3.5 billion.
Abure had on Thursday dismissed her allegation, saying that what entered into the party’s accounts was N1.3 billion, in addition to another N700 million that came into the campaign fund.
Abure had also alleged that Oparah was suspended from her position as treasurer in 2017 over alleged inconsistencies in the accounts of the party.
Responding to his assertions, Oparah also questioned the decision of the national chairman to send the audited accounts to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) without her signature.
She said: “He said he had tendered it to INEC, (but) with whose signature? Why would you tender an audit report to INEC without my signature?
“Why would he give it to the National Secretary to endorse? What am I doing?
“The first time that they brought this (audited report) to me, there was a position for me to sign but when I said I wasn’t going to sign it, the next thing he did was to remove the part I was supposed to sign.”, she explained.
According to Oparah, in addition to the N1.3 billion and the N700 million were other funds that came into the party’s accounts during the off-cycle elections.
She said, “ For the reruns, we had over N30 million, this Edo that we are in now will have over N200 Million, Kogi, Bayelsa, Imo, we had over N958 Million. I have not even added the diaspora figures”.
Asserting that she was not being sponsored to smear Peter Obi as alleged by the leadership of Labour Party, Oluchi Oparah said:
“This is not about Peter Obi. Peter Obi is a very wonderful person. I will support him with everything I have. Peter Obi has been an exemplary leader.
“Let him (Abure) step aside; let there be an investigation. Let the NWC see reasons with me that I am not fighting a personal fight, No.
“I have been writing letters for the past seven months. I was trying to exhaust the internal mechanisms of our party but unfortunately, it failed.”
She also hinted that she would seek legal redress over her suspension as the national treasurer for six months by the party, claiming that she was not given a fair hearing.
Earlier on Thursday, the national leader of the party and the presidential candidate of the party in the last presidential election, Obi, had called for a transparent investigation into the financial allegations against Abure.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), has reopened Sahad Store, a popular supermarket in the Garki area of Abuja.
The commission had sealed the store on Friday.
The management of the supermarket was accused of shortchanging customers by charging prices other than the price tag at the shelves.
The enforcement was led by FCCPC Acting Executive Vice Chairman, Adamu Ahmed Abdullahi.
Briefing journalists on the sidelines of the event, Abdullahi said the commission’s preliminary investigation confirmed that the management of the supermarket was short changing customers.
He said the store would remain sealed until the completion of further investigation.
Quoting sections 115 (3) of the commission’s act, he said “an undertaking shall not require a consumer to pay a price for any good or service higher than the price displayed.”
This business practice, he said, amounted to a violation of consumers’ rights under the FCCPA.
When contacted on Saturday morning, the supermarket’s customer care refused to speak on the issue.
FCCPC, in a statement by Abdullahi on Saturday said the store had resumed operations.
“On February 16, 2024, FCCPC operatives visited Sahad Stores and confirmed through random checks that the deceptive practice did not only continue, but cashiers also charged prices at their discretion, leaving unsuspecting customers vulnerable to unfair pricing.
“Exercising its authority under Section 18(f), the Commission temporarily sealed the premises.
“However, following a mutual understanding and commitment from Sahad Stores to implement transparent pricing practices, the FCCPC reopened the store on February 16, 2024, at about 7 p.m,” the statement read.
The FCCPC urged businesses “to display transparent pricing information to empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions, especially during challenging economic times.”
St. Valentine’s Day was on Wednesday but the echoes could still be felt from the sight and sound all around us, particularly, on social media.
As usual, at the forefront are the entertainment people who never let the moment pass by without unleashing all the beauty and love they have inside.
St Valentine’s Day is about spreading, sharing and giving love and a handful of the divas pen “love notes” that could echo through the times.
Love is a beautiful thing – Actress, Temidayo Babatunde
“Love is a beautiful thing that should be shown and felt as it makes the world beautiful. Although, I am of the opinion that showing love should not be restricted to a specific date. Love should be shared hourly, daily, monthly and every day of our lives and it should be reciprocated,” she says
“Love is a beautiful thing. I am passionate about love as I am love personified. It is good to love and be loved. I love love and I advocate that everyone should share love with their loved ones,” she adds.
Love is natural gift to humans – Actress Ejine Okoroafor
“To be honest, nothing beats love! It is a natural gift to humans. It feels good to be in love and also to be loved back. No matter how much I have been hurt, I will never give up on love. My advice is for everyone to feel it, enjoy it because life is too short.
Love is special to me – Singer/actress, Sandra Ifudu
Singer and actress Sandra Ifudu does not mince words on her belief in love. She says the day is set aside to celebrate love specially even though love is to be celebrated everyday.
“Of course, I believe in love. Like I said, love is a beautiful thing and it makes the world go round. Love is special to me because I can’t even imagine this world without love in the first place,” she says.
I love everything about Valentine’s Day – Influencer, Eva Adaeze
“Yes I do. Belief is an understatement, I love everything about Valentine’s Day . Apart from the fact that it is mainly of Christian origin (feast of St. Valentine), I believe in Cupid and everything love stands for .Even though here in Nigeria people do too much, I really don’t blame them .What’s that saying about doing whatever rocks your boat,” Eva Adaeze squeals
“ I’ll be partaking in some exclusive intimate activities, don’t ask what? I expect my box of roses wrapped up in plenty of dollars as usual. Love means compassion, it means being able to see someone else as yourself. I’ll just end it with a verse from Miley Cyrus’s lyrics from the song “Someone else”; she adds.
I love unconditionally everyday – Actress Ninny Okoro
Actress Nneoma Okoro doesn’t believe in the celebration of Valentine’s Day because, according to her, love shouldn’t have any special day.
“ I am love and I show it everyday. For me, there’s no special day to show love because I love unconditionally everyday, all year! There are simply no specifics to love. My plan for the day is my routine every Val’s day which is spa, massage and games night with my girlfriends who are single like me! Finally, spoil myself with exotic perfume gifts and return gift favours from those who gifted me as well,” she says.
I will be doing things I love with him – Singer, Annette Cookey
Singer, Annette Cookey is your everyday gleeful lover girl who will be doing things she loves with her man tomorrow. Don’t ask what?
“ As usual receiving gifts from him (laughs) and just doing things we love together (in doors). Yes, I do believe in love. Love means caring, giving (sharing), being honest and open at all times. Loving others becomes very easy when you love God and love yourself,” she declares.
Always a memorable day for me – Actress, Chidinma Anyah
“ The day is to give thanks to God first, for He is the origin of love itself. I intend to share the day with my loved ones. However, it happens to be a day that falls within my little sister’s birthday. Hence it has been a memorable day for me and family to share special gifts,” she says
“ My understanding of love is that it can be seen through actions. It goes hand in hand with sacrifice, caring, and compassionate understanding of who we are as individuals. Love resonates with kind words, a listening ear, understanding, encouragement, and so forth. Love shouldn’t just end at homes, but the society at large. I mean the homeless, the orphans, the poor, to mention but a few,” she adds.
Love doesn’t start on Valentine’s Day – Actress, Mimisola Daniels
“I’m not particularly fond of Valentine’s day and all the excesses that often come with it. I believe that love should be a virtue expressed by all and to all from time to time, and not the romanticized concept we’ve attached to it. Love doesn’t start on Valentine’s Day and shouldn’t end on Valentine’s Day, it should be a part of who we are,” Mimisola Daniels philosophizes.
Val’s Day deserves some form of festivity – Actress, Onyinye Ilechukwu
For actress, Onyinye Ilechukwu, It’s not a question of belief. She holds that, “ These dates and their peculiar significance have been set apart for global recognition, therefore if I choose to celebrate or not , the impact has been made in the global calendar.”
“I believe everyday is special and some days are to be recognized specifically, Val’s Day, like every other remarkable day deserves some form of festivity,” she adds.
On believing in love: “ I believe in love because I believe in God. He instituted love and gave it as the most important commandment. I practice God’s love a lot, which is , giving, forgiveness, kindness, fairness, patience & peace etc. Then along the lines of trying to keep God’s words a good Man comes along , we can try to take God’s word.”
It’s a day love is re-activated and celebrated –Actress, Pelumi Oluwakayode
Actress Pelumi Arameeday Oluwakayode believes St. Valentine’s Day is a day when love is re-activated and celebrated.
“I key into it as well. It falls on Monday this year. It is a workday. Consequently, when I return from the day’s work, I’ll celebrate it in a small way with my man. Even God Himself is love. As such, I believe in love and love means so much to me.
[Vanguard]
The Anambra State-based lawyer, Adachukwu Okafor, who has been accused of abusing her 11-year-old house help, Happiness Nwafor, is now in police net and set to be arraigned in court soon.
Okafor surrendered herself to the Anambra Police Command in Awka, according to a statement by Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the media aide to the Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ify Obinabo, on Friday.
Okafor allegedly used various objects like a broken bottle, knife, and electric iron to harm her house help, in response to an incident involving her daughter.
Recalled that the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, had placed a N2m bounty on Okafor.
While addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, the minister asserted her right to intervene in the matter as it relateed to women and children in the country.
Ikeanyionwu said Okafor submitted herself before the police after she was declared wanted and a bounty of N2m placed on her.
The statement read, “One Adachukwu Okafor, the alleged abuser of her 11-year-old housekeeper, has surrendered herself to the Anambra Police Command in Awka.
“Recall that the suspect, who is currently in police net, used knives and other sharp objects to inflict injuries on her 11-year-old housekeeper.
“This took place after she was declared wanted and a bounty of two million naira placed on her.”
Speaking on the development, the Women and Social Welfare Commissioner, Obinabo stated that the suspect will be arraigned before the Children, Sexual and Gender Based Violence Magistrate court in Awka next week.
Meanwhile, the 11-year-old Nwafor is set to be discharged from the hospital.
Obinabo visited the victim to see how she’s doing and further interacted with her.
Nwafor appreciated the state government and urged that her perpetrator be severely punished.
The immediate past National Vice Chairman (North-west) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Salihu Lukman has said with the economic hardship in the country, the ruling party and President Bola Tinubu-led government are becoming increasingly unpopular with Nigerians.
He said no one should be deceived that given the way APC and the government are becoming more and more unpopular; they are faced with the risk of rebellion by ordinary Nigerians.
Lukman in an open letter released in Abuja yesterday tilted; ‘APC and Question of Liability’, the government is taking some measures such as release of 42,000 metric tons of assorted grains and setting up commodity boards to regulate prices of food items, in the long run, the bigger challenge is the issue of guaranteeing local production.
“Given this reality, it is painful to admit that both the APC as a party and the government of President Asiwaju Tinubu are becoming increasingly unpopular with Nigerians.
“No one should be deceived that given the way we are becoming more and more unpopular; we are faced with the risk of rebellion by ordinary Nigerians.
“To avert such danger, it is important that our leaders return to their old mode of acting as visionary politicians and initiate deeply more substantive political reforms in the country to reposition the APC and return it to its founding vision of becoming a progressive political.
“At the same time, we need a different President Asiwaju Tinubu to show up who is a democrat and above all a progressive politician who should have high tolerance level when party members and citizens express disagreements to his decisions. We want a President Asiwaju Tinubu who will be open to engagement by party members and Nigerians.
Popular Nollywood actress, Anita Joseph, has asserted that coping with the cultural differences in her marriage to hype man, Michael Fisayo, better known as MC Fish, has not been easy.
Naija News reports that the Igbo movie star, married to Yoruba, made this known in an interview with PUNCH.
She said, “My mother-in-law speaks Yoruba to me and I say ‘eshe’ (thank you). I have learnt a bit, though it has not been easy.”
Speaking on how the marriage has influenced her life, Anita, who celebrated her fourth wedding anniversary during the week, said, “Marriage has influenced me in a very positive way. I have learnt to be more protective and patient.
“What matters the most is one’s heart. One’s parents or other family members won’t be in the marriage with you, so it is basically one and one’s spouse forever. So, if one chooses someone from a different tribe, it is okay. One’s happiness comes first.”
Anita also stated that though many people thought her marriage would not last long, she is happy to prove them wrong.
She added, “As regards my post on Instagram on my wedding anniversary, I wrote that some people and even blogs said that my marriage won’t last, but I ‘sent’ it back to them and their sisters. God’s grace has kept my husband and I together.”
Tonto Dikeh, the famous Nollywood actress and politician, recently took to social media to celebrate her son’s 8th birthday with a heartfelt message.
In an emotional note she wrote, along with adorable pictures of her son, Tonto Dikeh expressed her love and gratitude for her son, whom she described as her greatest blessings.
She shared how proud she is of the young boy he has become, and thanked him for bringing so much joy and happiness into her life.
She wrote:
“On this special day, as you turn 8, my heart swells with love and gratitude for the incredible joy you bring into my life. Being your mom is the greatest gift, and every day with you is a treasure beyond measure.
You, my sweet one, are the reason for every smile, every sacrifice, and every ounce of strength I muster. Your laughter is my favorite melody, and your dreams light up my world. I want you to know that everything I do is for your happiness and well-being.
Watching you grow, learn, and discover the world is a privilege I cherish. Your kindness, curiosity, and resilience inspire me, and I am endlessly proud of the wonderful person you are becoming.
Life may have its challenges, but our bond is unbreakable. Together, we face each day with courage, love, and the unwavering belief that the best is yet to come. No matter what lies
ahead, I am here, cheering you on, supporting
you, and loving you more than words can
express.
Happy 8th birthday, my precious one. May your days be filled with laughter, your dreams reach new heights, and your heart always know the warmth of my love.
Forever yours,
Mummy”
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Popular Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, aka Portable, has recounted his losses as his music studio was attacked by robbers.
He revealed that he was not around at the time of the incident and noted that he does not trust anyone. Besides, he said that the group that attacked his studio had always meant to harm him. According to him, it is the reason one should always carry their ‘aje’ around.
Portable said in crisp pidgin on his Instagram stories:
“Trust nobody. If you dey comot, carry your ‘aje’ follow body. E don tay wey dem wan achieve me. They have always wanted to burst my studio. Hustle o, so that another man’s property will not enter your eyes. It is those that are close to me that did it. Hungry wants to finish them, They will beg me for help. Yet, they are still coming to steal from me.”
A video of the studio showed its bad state as the place was scattered and a Play Station, television, discs, clothes, among other items were stolen. Check out videos of the disruptive work by the armed robbers and Portable’s reaction below:
Some fans of the controversial singer have reacted to his robbed studio. See some of their comments below:
@dokitorsavagexclusive: “This is sad! Seriously, one day we may hear that Portable has been seriously hurt fatally. I pray it doesn’t happen but he is at harm’s way. You can’t blow up and still remain in the hood without protection. He should move out of the hood and visit from time to time. American artistes who remained in their hood were robbed or killed.”
@_otos_world_: “Make e comot for hood and move to island. He’s now a big man and enemies go plenty.”
@officiial_young_duu: “It’s time for him to move from trenches.”
@iamkellyeazy1: “Na who know man dey kpai man. It is well my brother, you no go Fall.”
@depuffboss: “Na instrument the person thief, no be talent.”
@tribe_of_olise: “He should install CCTV around his house, bar and office.”
@iamking_myles: “Dem don already show baba em bills before e show.”
Media
“I’m coming for all of you who think I’m a comedian or fake prophet” – Pastor Odumeje issues warning to critics
AdminPastor Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, popularly known as Odumeje, has addressed accusations of being a fake prophet and dismissed claims that his teachings and preaching style are a form of entertainment.
In the video, the controversial pastor expressed his frustration with those who mock him and use his videos for comedic purposes.
He sternly warned the public to stop referring to him as an entertainer and to cease spreading his content for fun.
The pastor went on to address allegations of fake miracles.
Odumeje further emphasized that he would pursue legal action against those who falsely accuse him of staging phony miracles, even if the healing is attributed to Jesus.
He labelled his detractors as foolish and vowed to deal with anyone making untrue accusations against him.
The controversial pastor’s warning comes amid ongoing criticism and skepticism surrounding his ministry, with some questioning the authenticity of the miracles he claims to perform.
In his words;
“Many of you are using me as comedy. If nobody in your generation or history in Igbo land has ever done the kind of miracles that Jesus is using me to do and you are using me as a comedy, and you’re calling me an entertainer, I am coming for you.
If I have done fake miracles and posted it on social media, you are idiots to call me a comedian, you are an idiot to call me an entertainment man…. thunder will fire you. Anyday you mention my name before that stvpid things, that day you are in trouble,” he said.
Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of Living Faith Church, also known as Winners Chapel Worldwide, visited the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) in Abuja recently.
Oyedepo’s visit to COZA was perfectly timed with the joyous celebration of the church’s 25th anniversary, spearheaded by none other than Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo himself.
COZATV treated viewers to a captivating video capturing the revered cleric’s arrival at the church’s premises, shared on its YouTube page.
Oyedepo, recognized for his distinctive white outfit, was seen gracefully alighting from a Rolls Royce amid other car convoys.
He was then escorted into the church by Fatoyinbo and other clergy members, where he received a standing ovation from the excited congregation, thrilled to have him among them.
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Femi Adesina, immediate past Special Adviser Media to former President Muhammadu Buhari, has said his ex-boss left Nigeria far better than he met it.
Adesina, a former president of the Nigeria Guild of Editors, made the comment in an interview with ThisDaynewspaper.
Asked if he thinks his principal left Nigeria better than he met it, Adesina said:
“Far better than he met it. When you want to assess a man, you rate him based on the things he has promised to do.
“Here was a man who came in 2015, and he said he would secure the country, revive the economy, and fight corruption.
“The three pillars are Security, Economy, and Anti-corruption (SEA). Not all of us have selective amnesia.
“When he came in 2015, recalled that bombs went off in three to five places in a day in the country. Bombing and carnage everywhere. He began to attack that insecurity gradually.
“By the time he left, in all sincerity would you say Nigeria was the same way in terms of insecurity? During religious public holidays, we knew the carnage that used to happen everywhere.”
In reaction to several allegations and counter allegations going on within the party, a chieftain of the Labour Party, Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, on Friday warned that the party stands to sink beyond rescue over the current corruption allegations rocking the party.
Recall the LP’s National Treasurer, Oluchi Opara, accused the National Chairman, Julius Abure of corruption.
At a press conference on Monday, Opara demanded that Abure should account for the N3.5 billion raised from the sale of nomination forms and fundraising activities in the build-up to the 2023 general election.
Reacting, the party leadership on Wednesday slammed a six months suspension on Opara for shunning an invitation to a probe meeting and dragging the party’s name in the mud.
Also, Abure challenged the suspended National Treasurer of the party to provide evidence to back her N3.5 billion fraud allegation against him, and promised to file a defamation suit against her.
However, Joseph who is also a presidential aspirant of the LP in the 2023 general election and the National Leader of the Rescue Movement for New Nigeria, described the allegations of corruption as unfortunate, adding that allegations of misappropriation of the presidential campaign funds were not good for the party
This was contained in a statement released by the National Director, Media and Publicity of Rescue Movement for New Nigeria, Rev. Emmanuel Olorunmagba, to journalists in Kaduna State on Friday.
While stating that LP must be rescued from the mess, Joseph expressed concern that the party Nigerians were looking up to had been enmeshed in monumental corruption allegations to the chagrin of all.
The LP chieftain, however, warned that the corruption allegations against Abure must not be swept under the carpet, describing them as “shameful”.
The statement partly reads: “The Labour Party that Nigerians were looking out for to rescue the country is now languishing in monumental corruption allegations as well as financial misappropriation obvious in the record on the presidential campaign funds released by Peter Obi. Thus, the Labour Party now needs to be rescued
“The issue of repeated financial mismanagement, embezzlement, forgery, and other allegations of corruption allegedly against Labour Party National Chairman, Julius Abure, is so terrible and should not be swept under the carpet.
“However, that will be a discussion for another day. But I will call on the appropriate government authority to carry out a proper investigation into the monumental allegations and ensure justice is done.
“There are pertinent questions begging for answers such as how sensible is it that N744.5 million was claimed to have been spent for legal fees for the election petition tribunal when the amount said to have been spent on running the whole election is less than half of that?
“We are aware of some lawyers that offered services for the Labour Party pro bono, then how did what was spent on the presidential election petition amount to that?”
•A second opinion can change everything — Prof Morenike Ukpong
•When in doubt, double-check your diagnosis — Prof Oladapo Ashiru
•Doctors should respect patients’ rights to seek a second opinion — NMA
•A second opinion changed the course of my treatment – Patient’s experience
The celebrated case of Dr. Farid Fata, a Michigan oncologist who was sentenced to 45 years in prison in 2015 for medical fraud and misconduct comes into perspective. Fata, who was also slammed with a $17,600,000 forfeiture order, misdiagnosed and mistreated hundreds of patients, many of whom didn’t even have cancer.
Worse still, Fata submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare and private insurance companies for approximately $34,000,000 in fraudulent billings. He admitted to 13 counts of healthcare fraud, conspiracy to pay or receive kickbacks, and money laundering after he fraudulently administered unnecessary and excessive chemotherapy and other treatments, causing the patient’s severe physical and emotional harm.
The impact of his action was colossal. Over 550 patients were affected, some enduring debilitating side effects and emotional trauma. Fata’s case was a shocking example of medical malpractice and abuse of trust and one that highlighted the importance of patient advocacy and holding healthcare professionals accountable for their actions.
The case exposed vulnerabilities in the healthcare system that allowed such a scheme to go on for so long. It was among numerous instances of concerns about medical ethical practices and patient safety worldwide.
This emphasizes the importance of how seeking a second opinion from another doctor can be a valuable step in an individual’s healthcare journey, particularly when facing complex or serious medical conditions. According to medical experts, a second opinion can be beneficial for confirmation of diagnosis, and can provide additional clarity and support for diagnosis.
How a second opinion changed the course of my treatment — Patient’s experience
Andrew, a middle-aged civil servant who was diagnosed with prostate cancer, narrated his experience about the essence of a second medical opinion. He told Saturday Vanguard about the importance of going for a second opinion.
“It was incredible! The key takeaway is that we should always get a second opinion when making medical decisions. When I experienced bone degradation after cancer therapy, a second opinion helped me avoid steroid medication.
“Steroid medication was recommended by one of the top hospitals in Nigeria, so I would occasionally go for injections. I would have the injection once again if the effects wore off.
“At the National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi, where I sought a second opinion, the orthopedic specialist prescribed some medication for me. As a consequence, I’ve returned to tennis after a two-year hiatus due to weak bones. I’m now feeling fantastic and performing well. For me, prayer was effective.”
Speaking further, Andrew recalled how only recently, a patch was discovered in his right eye, which was described as a cyst.
“I wasn’t diabetic and the doctors wondered the cause of the cyst. Aylea injection into the eye was prescribed by a doctor in one of the best eye hospitals in Nigeria. Each shot of the injection was N800,000, and I was scheduled to take three shots in three months. But another doctor suggested I seek a second opinion from a retina consultant.
“One week later, I saw the Indian consultant who said I didn’t need the Aylea injection, which is usually injected into the eye. Some eye drops were prescribed. For me, it was not even about the cost of the injection, but the wrong diagnosis, which could have caused another problem for me. So, let’s all seek a second opinion and, if possible, a third opinion in healthcare,” Andrew advised.
In Andrew’s case, another doctor had a different perspective that helped to refine the initial diagnosis and this helped to gain a more comprehensive understanding of his health condition and the potential treatment available. His condition improved tremendously after three months application of the eye drops recommended by the retina consultant.
Benefits of a second opinion
A second opinion helps to establish early detection of misdiagnosis. Patients must be informed and proactive in their healthcare decisions, asking questions and seeking second opinions when necessary. Some of the Fata’s patients who sought a second opinion escaped his callous actions.
Nigerians shun 2nd opinion
Although there is no comprehensive data on the number of Nigerians who seek a second opinion from a doctor, the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, NDHS, notes that 14 percent of women and 12 percent of men in Nigeria reported seeking a second opinion from a doctor in the past year.
From the study, seeking a second opinion was more common among people with higher levels of education and income.
Another study, published in the Journal of the Nigerian Medical Association in 2019, found that only 25 percent of patients seen at a tertiary care hospital in Lagos had sought a second opinion from another doctor before coming to the hospital. The study also found that the most common reasons for seeking a second opinion were dissatisfaction with the diagnosis or treatment plan provided by the first doctor and a desire for more information about the patient’s condition.
Social challenges are not left out. Nigerians generally do not readily question the opinions of authority figures, including doctors, and this can make it difficult for patients to question or challenge the advice of their doctor, even if they have concerns about their diagnosis or treatment plan. This is made worse by the fact that healthcare providers generally expect patients to be passive recipients of care. However, this mindset is rapidly changing. Attitudinal barriers also come into play.
For instance, Saturday Vanguard findings showed that some patients fear that seeking a second opinion will be perceived as a sign of distrust or disrespect for their first doctor. This fear often prevents them from seeking the additional information and support that they need.
Many Nigerians are not aware of the benefits of seeking a second opinion and do not even understand that it is a common practice and that it can be very helpful in making informed decisions about their healthcare.
What the NMA says
The Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, which is the umbrella body for medical practice in Nigeria, supports the provision of second opinions and encourages doctors to comply with the Code of Medical Ethics and the Association’s guidelines. The provision of second opinions recommends that doctors should respect the patient’s right to seek a second opinion.
Section 42 of the NMA’s Code of Medical Ethics states: “When a patient is referred to a fellow doctor for a second opinion, or for investigation, it is culpable misconduct for the doctor so consulted to take over the continuing care of the patient so referred.”
The interpretation of this section is that the doctor who provides the second opinion should not assume responsibility for the patient’s care unless the patient and the referring doctor agree to it.
The NMA also encourages doctors to provide patients with the option of seeking a second opinion. The Code of Medical Ethics states: ”it is normal professional courtesy for the consulted doctor to communicate a comprehensive report on the patient to the referring doctor. Failure to comply with this norm constitutes improper conduct.”
Barriers
There are several barriers to seeking a second medical opinion in Nigeria. The first barrier is finance. The cost of seeking a second opinion is often a hindrance and a major deterrent for many Nigerians. Consultation fees in Nigeria can be relatively high depending on where the treatment is being sought.
The average cost of seeking a second medical opinion in Nigeria varies significantly depending on the location (urban or rural), the type of healthcare facility (private or public), and the specialist involved. The cost also depends on the complexity of the medical case.
Saturday Vanguard findings reveal that consultation in public hospitals ranges from around N2,500 to N7,000, but there are longer waiting times and limited access to specialists. This is compared to an average of N10,000 to N50,000 or even higher in private health facilities depending on the specialist and location. These are in addition other expenses such as diagnostic tests, additional consultations, and transportation costs.
The lack of insurance coverage is also there. Most health insurance plans in Nigeria do not cover the cost of second opinions or at best offer limited coverage. So in most cases, the patient pays out of pocket for multiple consultations.
The shortage of healthcare resources also contributes to the malady, forcing patients to be pressured into starting treatment without seeking a second opinion, especially for serious or chronic conditions.
A second opinion can change everything — Prof Morenike Ukpong
A professor of Paediatric Dentistry at the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile Ife, Prof Morenike Ukpong, noted that with the growth in self-care, seeking second medical opinion is important to ensure thorough and well-informed decision-making regarding one’s health.
Ukpong, who is a Researcher/Lecturer and clinician with the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, OAUTHC, said a second medical opinion should not be overlooked even in routine diagnosis.
“A second medical opinion is important when dealing with serious medical conditions, especially those requiring major interventions or surgeries. These include when managing chronic illnesses that require long-term management, when the initial diagnosis is unclear, if there are conflicting recommendations among healthcare providers regarding the treatment approach, or when undergoing invasive procedures or surgeries.
“In addition, anytime a patient is dissatisfied with the current treatment or is not experiencing the expected improvement, seek a second opinion. When high-risk medications are prescribed, especially with potentially severe side effects, seek a second opinion.”
Ukpong decried the poor level of awareness among Nigerians. In her recommendation, she called for public sensitisation to bridge the knowledge gap.
“I think awareness is poor as is the medical awareness generally. I also think that those with higher educational backgrounds may be more aware about seeking a second opinion, including reading up about their ailment, and treatment options and exploring this with their medical practitioners even when they seek a second opinion,” she urged.
When in doubt, double-check your diagnosis —Prof Oladapo Ashiru
In the view of a renowned scholar and co-founder of In Vitro Fertilisation, IVF, in Sub-Saharan Africa, Professor Oladapo Ashiru, a second opinion is crucial to medical diagnosis.
”Any procedure that you want to do, especially when it involves surgery, healthcare or some invasive procedure or cancer, has far-reaching consequences such that the patient should be able to always opt for a second opinion, so that it can conform and reinforce the opinion of the first medical intention, or to disagree.
“Ethically the doctor is not supposed to discourage a patient that wants to seek a second opinion or wants to go to another centre for treatment,” he noted.
Ashiru, who is the Secretary-General of the International Federation of Fertility Societies, IFFS, and is well-known for his important contributions to the field of reproductive healthcare, remarked that
“It is very important all over the world even in the developed countries a patient would always ask for a second opinion. There have been cases of patients who were told that they had cancer only to realise that they did not have cancer, and many like that. So a second opinion is essential.”
Ashiru argued that for somebody going through surgical treatment, a second opinion is critical.
“I have a patient in the US who got pregnant but along the line the pregnancy stopped and the baby stopped growing. She was being asked to either do a medical evacuation, that is to take medication to expel the fetus, or to do dilatation and evacuation.
“She consulted and sought opinions from other specialists about what was best to do, and the doctor in the US allowed her at that time to make her decision. Eventually, she opted to do dilatation and evacuation which was confirmed by the various opinions because she would get it over and done with. Whereas medical evacuation might fail and would still require evacuation. So these are things that are encouraged in medical practice.”
Ashiru lamented that Nigerians are not well informed. “This is the major problem with many people. A large percentage of our population does not read and is not informed, and only a few people who are informed can take the opportunity of such practice. We need to do a lot in educating the population about health matters,” he remarked.
The bottom line
Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions. The power of challenging medical diagnosis lies in the hands of Nigerians through insisting on a second opinion. A second opinion usually helps prevent fraudulent claims, protect patients from potential financial burdens, provide emotional and psychological relief, alleviate anxiety and fear, and improve patients’ mental well-being. The importance of patient advocacy, awareness of misdiagnosis risks, and proactive engagement in healthcare decisions cannot be overstressed.
Every medical doctor is expected to provide patients with information about their options and also to facilitate the patient’s referral to another doctor. In addition, the doctor(s) who provides the second opinion must also share their findings with the referring doctor, even if the patient chooses not to follow their recommendations.
To address these barriers and encourage more Nigerians to seek second opinions, there needs to be a shift in attitudes and a greater emphasis on patient empowerment. Government and insurance companies should also take steps to make second opinions more affordable and accessible.
[Vanguard]
The Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State, CP Shehu Umar Nadada, has paraded 12 suspects arrested for child trafficking and other criminal activities in the state.
The suspects, linked to the sale of 45 children, were paraded on Friday in Lafia.
A total of 57 suspects were arrested by the state Police Command from January 1 to date, according to Nadada, who spoke during a press briefing at the state Police Command Headquarters in Lafia.
The suspects include three suspected kidnappers, three armed robbery suspects, and twenty suspected fraudsters, along with others arrested for rape and motorcycle/vehicle theft.
One of the cases involved the abduction of a five-year-old boy in Keffi, where Ismaila Adamu was arrested for his involvement in a syndicate specializing in child theft.
This led to the arrest of several other suspects involved in the theft and sale of children.
Nadada stated that analysis conducted on the suspects’ phones revealed that 45 children had been stolen and illegally adopted by unsuspecting members of the public across the country.
He said the suspects confessed to theft and selling the children at different prices, ranging from N350,000 to N1,500,000, depending on their age and gender.
They also revealed that they conspired with Social Welfare officers of some ministries to produce fake documents and sell the children to willing buyers.
The Police Commissioner stated that six children have been rescued in Abuja, Ondo, and Lagos states, respectively, and efforts are ongoing to arrest more suspects involved in the crime and recover more of the stolen children.
“The suspects have confessed to the theft and selling of so many children at different prices ranging from N350,000 to N1,500,000, depending on their age and gender.
“The suspects further stated that they steal and sell the Children by conspiring with Social Welfare officers of some ministries; where they produce fake documents and sell the Children to willing buyers.
“So far, Six (6) children have been rescued in Abuja, Ondo and Lagos State respectively. Effort is ongoing to arrest more suspects involved in the commission of the crime and recover more of the stolen Children,” Nadada said.
Various items were recovered from the suspects, including fake foreign currency, firearms and ammunition, 10 motorcycles, and 2 vehicles, among others, as exhibits.