Tag: Valentine’s Day

  • HIV, HPV red flags fly over 2025 Valentine’s Day (2)

    HIV, HPV red flags fly over 2025 Valentine’s Day (2)

    The Tree Man gave me a health shocker when I saw his photograph for the first time on the internet about 20 years ago. I was researching  Human Papillo Virus and I thought I was seeing a small tree or, at best, a thicket which had grown and formed itself in human shape. Alas, The Tree Man was, really, a man, whose skin had abnormally grown semblances  of small plants on his body. What could have gone wrong with his body? The first time I published his photograph in this column, its caused butterflies to fly in the stomachs of many readers, especially those who had small warts growing in different parts of their bodies.Who would know he or she has warts on the body and that the troubles of the The Tree Man came from warts who would not be afraid that he or she, too, could be become a tree man or a tree woman, and not take exception to the publication? This is one of the reasons I appreciate public health campaign of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to make Nigerians girls and women vaccinate against infection of Human Papillo Virus( HPV). This virus is a root cause of the problem of tree man, and has been shown to cause cancers and other unforgettable and disabling health troubles in the cervix and Vagina.Nevertheless, I stand with those persons who have reservations about vaccinations for all sorts of  reasons, especially the fear that only the future can tell what abnormalist will come with each vaccination.  As a child, my parents submited me  to the authorities for polio and small pox vaccinations.May be that is why I am polio and small pox free till today.That has not left me off guard.Haven’t we been hearing for decades that vaccination against small pox may be a root cause of the cancer pandemic world wide today? This is why this column will offer  some  plant medicines suggestions for fighting human Papillo Virus. Before then, I will like to introduce to you the tree man…

    Dede  Koswara, The Tree Man

    The following report comes from the internet…

    “The  Tree Man was Dede Koswara, an Indonesian man who suffered from a rare genetic disorder called Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis (EV). This condition made him extremely susceptible to human papillomavirus (HPV), which caused uncontrollable growth of warts resembling tree bark on his skin.

    “Koswara’s warts started growing when he was 10 years old, and by the time he was an adult, they had spread to his face, arms, and legs, making everyday activities extremely challenging. His condition earned him the nickname “Tree Man” due to the tree-like appearance of his warts.

    HPV is a common virus that can cause various diseases, including: Warts…Benign growths on the skin or mucous membranes.

    Cervical cancer…A type of cancer that affects the cervix in women. Other anogenital cancers…Cancers that affect the anus, vulva, vagina, or penis.Oropharyngeal cancer…A type of cancer that affects the throat and tonsils.

    Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis (EV)… A rare genetic disorder that makes individuals highly susceptible to HPV and increases their risk of developing skin cancer.

    “Koswara’s story was widely shared, and he underwent several surgeries to remove the warts, but they continued to grow back. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2016 due to complications related to his condition”.

    Wart and HPV

    Valentine’s Day 2025, that is last Friday, provided the health community in Nigeria an opportunity to talk about HPV and the relationship with cancer formation in the private  place of young girls and women. This is because  many persons itching to lay off emotional or other forms of steem from stress easily late themselves hurtle down heel at this time in the hope of regaining some balance. Girls and women become easily more endangered in such a season than men are.  It is often not written on the faces of men that they are HPV positive. A careful woman  may not easily discover that she bears HPV within. Some of them have organs which only special medical examination can detect. Even when they are visible, how many women know what they portend or can recoil at the last moment? Perhaps the ones that may put off a woman may be the open sores which may heal now and then during remissions. Beyond all of these, HPV is transmissible through the skin. Beyond skin transmission, also, all sorts of unwholesome events take place in the act. A long time ago, this column feature a gentleman under the title…The Man Who Puts His Mouth in The Wrong Place. In the days of youthful exuberance, I would have hit the nail on the head or call a spade a spade and not an agricultural implement, as we say. His gums were roughened up, his teeth shaking in their sockets and the mucus lining of his inner cheeks bombarded with mucus-filled tiny growths, the type Yorubas call Owo Eyo (cowry money)  because they have the circular shape of coins . A lucky man he was. He recovered in months, on  Propolis Syrup, sprayed into the mouth and swirled around with his blisters, and patched tongue.He was a victim of oral sex. Some women, too, fall victim to men who, through oral sex, may introduce HPV or other pathogens into their bodies through their mouths.Women may suspect a man if he is unusually  fatigued, itches even anally and discharges or experiences painful urination.Some of the signs a girl or woman may watch out for are…genital warts, Small, flat, or raised growths on the penis, scrotum, anus, or groin area, anal warts, small, flat, or raised growths around the anus, penile lesions, abnormal growths or sores on the penis, Anal itching or bleeding, Itching, bleeding, or discharge from the anus. The age brackets WHO is targeting especially for HPV vaccination is the 11-18 years generation.This generation of girls is likely to still be in secondary, sexually active, careless about sexual safety and unable “to do something when they see something”. This is one of the main reasons, as I said earlier, why HPV vaccination is fascinating.

    Options to Vaccination

    In nature, there is nothing which exists, however powerful, which has no antidote. That is why snakes flee from bitter kola and an army of African black ants, rocket and stubborn as its may be, will disperse when its encounters wood ash on the way. A few decades ago, a doctor in Europe produced a machine that could easily become a master piece invention of our time. It was founded on the principles of healing diseases with natural vibration or natural radiations. If you know the vibration or radiation status of any germ, and you can set the machine to produce a counter vibration or radiation, and you  can hold a terminal of the machine to pass the vibration or radiation through your body to the pathogen, you will block  the pathogen from existence and destroy it just as one radio station frequency can jam another radio frequency out of operation. The medical establishment rejected this machine and branded its author a crank, to protect pharmaceutical medicine and established medical practice  from possible effacement. In Lagos, I tried to produce this machine from the simple electrical design she got out free in that book. But I could not find an electrical engineer who was interested in such a project.

    Read Also: Visa denial: We won’t tolerate disrespect from any country, says CDS Musa

    This leaves us with the life forces or radiation in plant medicine  which may have been designed as a stepping stone to this age of technology when mankind, working with mother nature and utilising her principles, would elevate proceedings on earth to higher levels. Medical science tells us pharmaceutical medicine  cannot successfully address viruses. That is why virus challenged persons may  live with them for life. They have been challenges to this world view. First, can we not minimise bacterial and fungal load to zero tolerance with such proprietory formula as Amazon A-F, to minimise work load of the immune system and then fortify it with Amazon  A-V designed against viruses with about 10 medicinal  extracts from well known antiviral plants? I witnessed the recovering  from occult blood and ulcerative colitis by a Septuagenarian who used Pau D’arco to save himself from surgery. I have heard of how prosta care helped many persons on catheter recover from their prostrate gland trouble. We may observe from www.medicinenet.com how the fellowing herbs fight Inflamation, viruses and even slow the growth of cancers… oregano, lemon balm, tumeric, licorice, Astragalus, garlic, holy basil, black elderberry, Echinaea, zinc, Rishi mushroom, myrrh e.t.c. What may be the biggest evidence may be the story of Dr Samuel Johnson. I reported recently that this Nigerian  practised medicine for 47 years in the United States before he was struck by prostate cancer, and of how the ravages of stage 4 prostate cancer made his doctors give him only three months to lived, where upon he returned to Nigeria to die, but was given a protocol of herbs which quelled the cancer and he  has lived on for almost one year. This week, I sought audience with him again. He is willing to share his story. He offered free consultation on the remedies he used. Currently, he is busy on a huge medical project in which he is supported by the United nations Development Project (UNDP) and the African Development Bank (ADB). His survival story promises to be a very interesting one for all men challenged with prostate cancer.

    Girls, Women and Mother Nature

    In the first part of this series, I mentioned the admonition in a spiritual work which inspired my interest in natural medicine. Its says: Neither Drug Nor Injections But The Right Kinds of Foods And Drinks Alone Bring Lasting Health. I was inpired also by the admonition that no tumour or cancer can grow in the human body with a healthy liver.  I have also learned from this work that our environment is not a decoration but filled with messages for the wise to learn from. Why do green plants fill everywhere? In my  thirties, older men and women who were custodians of this Creation Knowledge told me the blood of man was made from the blood of plants. It was in my 60s, about 30 years later, that four scientists who won the Noble Prize in medicine unlocked the secret for me. Their work said the green Chlorophyl pigment of plant and the Haemoglobin, the red pigment in the red blood cells of humans, are  of the same structure…Carbon, Hyrogen, Nitrogen and Oxygen. The only difference is that Magnesium holds this structure together in chlorophyl while Iron holds it together in Haemoglobin. Thus, when we eat green plants or drink their juices, the body uses them to recharge and to cleanse our blood after replacing the Magnesium with Iron.This knowledge led me to write an article in the 1990s titled…. Let’s drink green, the earth is not green for the fun of it. Soon after, the first chlorophyl drinks and powder products appeared on the shelves of Nigerian health food stores.

    The greens and their Chlorophyl have Oxygen content in them.Germs cannot survive in oxygenated environment.How many girls and women consume chlorophyl drinks? The liver easily detoxifies itself when bigger principles are consumed in foods. Many girls and  women hate to eat bitter things. However, some of them change when I tell them of a Yoruba  saying of the elders… Ota Enu Ni ore Inu (The mouth’s enemy is the friends of the organs!).Thus, rather than waste the next Aloe Vera leaf gel on hair treament, juice and drink it on  a meal or empty  stomach. Its miracles will impact the hair from within! Eat orange peel, plantain peel, banana peel e.t.c. Dr. Max Gerson theorised that cancer and other tumours develop only when  there is not enough potassium  in the cell or when  there is too much  sodium in the cell. The cell will therefore have a weak Sodium- Potasium Pump, lose oxygen intake and become fermentative.These and other factors may be why the breast and the cervix have become prone to cancer in our generation. I tend to believe Dr Max Gerson because many Nigerian women today cannot do without Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in their  cooking as a taste enchancer. You may say  that  MSG occurs naturally in foods. Yes, that is  organic MSG formulated under different conditions of radiations than the factory-made in organic MSG.  In nature, the radiations which form MSG and other nutrients do not attack or destroy themselves as they happen in factory formulations.

    This is not where I am going in respect of  HPV, vaccination for girls and women.

    The Germ Theory

    Some persons believe HPV Vaccination is necessary. Others believe it is a ruse to milk poor nations. After all, the U.S gave Africa 500 U.S.D HIV drugs to make the users become dependent on them before the  subvention is withdrawn. No one as yet knows implications of HIV vaccination.All we are hearing is that HPV can cause cancer.That  was how Louis- Pasteur sold the idea that  germs cause diseases and pasteurisation began which killed the life force in fooods, and Dr Edward Jenner, Robert konch  and their  likes began vaccination medicines against small pox, bacteria and other diseases in the late 18th century.

    Isn’t it only now  that we are wondering  why two persons were exposed to GERMS in the same environment and one was infected but the other was not?  President  Donald Trump forced Americans to flee Nigeria during  COVID-19 upsurge, saying  Nigerians would “die like flies” Did we? Did not Americans and Europeans “die like flies”? The answer to Louis Pasteur’s Germ Theory is that it is the immune system which determines whether exposure  to germ will cause disease, not the germ itself. What will work for the immune weakling in this regard is the speed at which the body can produce its Primary anti-oxidants. Glutathione, Super Oxide Dismutase(SOD) and  Catalase. Glutathione, the must important, is produced from three amino acids…Glutamic acid, Cysteine and glycine. SOD comes from Zinc and Manganese.There are other anti-oxidants and phenolic compounds no doubt. I would like, finally, to touch  on two other important factors regarding whether, with or without HIV, cancer can occur in the cervix, at least from natural medicine perspectives. One  is that the cervix like the vagina, is slightly acidic for self protection. Semen, on the other  hand, is alkaline.Besides, it comes with anti- body antibodies to supress for a while the anti body of those areas for the safe passage into the uterus of sperm cells which require an alkaline environment for their survival. When a  woman’s body is accessed too often even by the sperm  of her spouse and sexual partner, there is tendency for the alkalinity of sperm  to neutralise the  acidity of this region and lay it open for the manifestation of germs and viruses which may result in  cancer, especially  when the  livers function is subnormal! The girl and woman of today are irresponsible when its comes to sex.Female animals reject sex when they are not on “heat” for reproduction.Girls and women, forgetting or ignoring that their bodies  descended from the animal, and that they should control it, may accept sex every day.

    Energy Medicine

    Finally,we are too familiar with  orthordox medicine which is Western medicine. Energy Medicine is Eastern or Asian medicine. Over there, it is agreed that the body of man  is not man, who dwells in the body as a  Spirit Energy kernel or the Bibical Breath of Life. This Overself or Spirit has seven “sockets” into which the body inserts plugs, in seven different locations known as The Chakras. Each chakra corresponds with the location of an endocrine gland system. Beginning from the base of the spine upwards, these chakras are in the (1) spine(2)pubis(3)Solar plexus(4) Heart region(5) throat(6)Eyes(7) crown. When the Chakra is burnt out or not supplying energy well, the  region it supplies power, like an electricity transformer that is down and causes black -outs, begins to ail and is prone to weakness, cold or deterioration.The vagina, reproductive system,bladder, prostate gland are in the second chakra region. You  may obtain from the internet why the Chakras fail and how, from therapies within the soul or overself, it may be revived. Externally, the current leading solution is the wearing of Quantum Energy Boxer to supply the body quantum energy from quantum energy minerals wired into the boxers.  Some other persons may well prefer Colour Therapy. Each chakra manifests a peculiar colour. That of the first chakra is red, while that of  Second Chakra is orange.The Virgina and the cervix  may share first and second chakra energies and, therefore, profit from red and orange colours.Other chakra colours are yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

    In earlier columns, I wrote about how one may make and drink solarised water in glass bottles of colours appropriate for Chakra location.We live in a free  world. So, the search for protection against HPV and cancer is a personal one.Nevertheless, we should remember always that the earth is not green for the fun of it.That is the heart of natural medicine.

  • Valentine’s Day: Cornerstone Insurance Foundation, Lagos Food Bank partner on school feeding

    Valentine’s Day: Cornerstone Insurance Foundation, Lagos Food Bank partner on school feeding

    Cornerstone Insurance PLC Foundation has sponsored the Lagos Food Bank Initiative (LFBI) School Feeding programme for Valentine’s Day.

    The schools that benefited from the food distribution partnership initiative include Divine Wisdom, Idera Oluwa, and Debby and Frank, all located in Agege, Lagos State.

    General Manager, Cornerstone Insurance Plc, Charles Nwachukwu, who spoke with reporters at the LFBI office in Ikeja, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to improving the welfare of underserved communities.

    He said: “We are proud to be part of this laudable initiative to give a sense of belonging to our school children, especially the less privileged children this Valentine’s Day. There is no better time to do this than now.

    “It is time to show love to the people of our immediate community through insurance. Our slogan this period is “Show Love with Insurance”. We need to affect our environment positively by showing love and giving to help those who are in need,” Nwachukwu said.

    Read Also: Ribadu hands over 59 rescued kidnap victims to Kaduna govt

    Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Cornerstone Insurance Plc, Cordelia Ekeocha, said the foundation’s logo represents a caring hand, hence the ongoing commitment to making a difference through partnerships with NGOs.

    “Since 2013, we have been working with different Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and institutions in various ways to impact the lives of the people in our immediate communities.

    “Cornerstone Insurance Plc Foundation (CIPLCF) serves as the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Cornerstone Insurance Plc, focusing on initiatives that uplift communities and improve societal well-being. The Education Enhancement Intervention for Food Insecure Students (EDUFOOD) is a programme by LFBI aimed at improving the nutritional status and health of food-insecure students in low-cost primary and secondary schools within underserved communities in Lagos State,” she said.

  • This will be my last Valentine’s Day unmarried – DJ Cuppy declares

    This will be my last Valentine’s Day unmarried – DJ Cuppy declares

    Popular disc jockey Florence Otedola, known as DJ Cuppy, has expressed her desire to get married, declaring that this Valentine’s Day will be her last as a single woman. 

    In a post on her X handle, Cuppy wrote, “Happy #ValentinesDay to me! Manifesting that this is my last one unmarried. Lord, do your thing!” 

    Read Also: I won’t abandon my true self for a relationship – DJ Cuppy

    Her declaration sparked mixed reactions from fans, with some professing their love for her and others offering advice.

  • Valentine’s Day: Why Nigerians must embrace love beyond romance, by Akindele

    Valentine’s Day: Why Nigerians must embrace love beyond romance, by Akindele

    Valentine’s Day has become a global cultural phenomenon, marked by romantic gestures, roses, and chocolates, according to public relations expert, Barnabas Akindele.

    He believes that in Nigeria, the essence of this day often takes on a communal spirit, showcasing our vibrant culture of togetherness. Yet, it also presents a timely opportunity to introspect and rediscover the transformative power of love starting at the individual level.

    In his words: “In a society like ours, often characterised by economic challenges, social tensions, and rapid urbanisation, love is not just a luxury, it is a necessity. The demand for love transcends the romantic sphere. It finds expression in our relationships with family, friends, strangers, and, most importantly, with ourselves. Valentine’s Day, therefore, is not solely about gifting; it’s about giving something deeper—empathy, kindness, and understanding, qualities that are sorely needed in the Nigerian context today.”

    Nigeria, with its diversity, Akindele said, thrives on its unique ability to bring people together across tribes, faiths, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Yet, recent years, he argued, have tested this unity, with issues such as political divides, youth unemployment, and social injustice creating fractures in our collective harmony.

    “Many Nigerians carry unspoken emotional wounds, from the stress of survival in a tough economy to the trauma of societal inequities.

    “This is where love, as a conscious act, becomes vital. Love is not merely an emotion but a decision to see and acknowledge the humanity in others, regardless of their differences. When individuals intentionally practice acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion, they create ripples that can heal families, strengthen communities, and transform society.”

    Read Also: Valentine’s Day: NACA urges safety against HIV, STIs

    This Valentine’s Day, Akindele has urged Nigerians to look beyond flowers and dates and embrace the deeper meaning of love that transforms lives and strengthens communities.

    For the public relations expert, love is not just a personal virtue, it is a national asset. According to him, a society that fosters love at the individual level builds a foundation for collective growth.

    “When Nigerians love themselves and each other, it reflects in their sense of community, cooperation, and resilience. Imagine a Nigeria where love inspires people to mentor the youth, care for the elderly, bridge ethnic gaps, and address societal challenges with empathy. This vision is achievable if we all start today—one act of love at a time.”

    Valentine’s Day, he added, is more than a date on the calendar; it is a reminder of the power we hold as individuals to love, heal, and transform our society.

    “In a country as diverse and dynamic as Nigeria, “Love should not be a fleeting emotion but a daily choice to see and celebrate our shared humanity.

    “So, as you buy gifts or plan outings this Valentine’s, remember: love is a verb. It is in the way you treat yourself, the way you uplift others and the way you choose unity over division. Nigeria needs love—and it starts with you,” he stated.

  • Valentine’s Day: NACA urges safety against HIV, STIs

    Valentine’s Day: NACA urges safety against HIV, STIs

    As Valentine’s Day approaches, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) is urging Nigerians to prioritise their health and safety, especially when it comes to preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In a statement issued ahead of Valentine’s Day, Dr. Temitope Ilori, the Director-General of NACA, called for responsible behaviour during the season of love.

    Dr. Ilori stressed that HIV remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, despite the fact that being preventable. He emphasised the importance of making informed choices that protect oneself and one’s partner from the virus. According to the NACA boss, engaging in risky behaviours, such as unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners or substance use that impairs judgment, increases the likelihood of HIV transmission. With Valentine’s Day being a time of affection and intimacy, she reminded Nigerians that true love goes hand-in-hand with responsibility.

    “Engaging in risky behaviours can lead to the transmission of HIV and other STIs. As we approach Valentine’s Day, let us remember that love and safety should be inseparable. True affection is shown not just through words and gestures but by making wise, responsible decisions that protect both you and your partner’s health,” she said.

    NACA’s message serves as a reminder that HIV is preventable, and that individuals have the power to safeguard their well-being. One of the key actions in preventing HIV is knowing one’s HIV status, NACA explained. And for people to safeguard their well-being, Dr. Ilori stressed the importance of regular HIV testing, describing it as an essential step in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Testing allows individuals to take proactive measures to protect themselves and others from the virus, she said. “The first step to protection is knowing your HIV status. Regular HIV testing should be part of your routine, as it ensures that you are informed and can take steps to stay safe. We want everyone to enjoy Valentine’s Day without compromising their health. By making responsible choices, we can all contribute to reducing the spread of HIV.”

    Read Also: Loan controversy: Onasanya appears in court to clear name

    NACA’s call for safety and responsibility extends beyond just awareness; the agency is making testing more accessible to the public. Dr. Ilori assured Nigerians that free HIV testing is available at all government-owned hospitals across the country, making it easier for individuals to get tested without facing financial barriers. “We want to make sure that Nigerians have access to the tools they need to stay safe. Regular testing is one of the most important actions you can take to protect your health and the health of your partner,” she explained.

    In addition to testing, NACA encourages everyone to adopt safer sex practices, such as using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners. These measures significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission and other STIs. The agency also reminded Nigerians to be mindful of substance use, which can impair judgment or lead to unsafe sexual practices. As part of its ongoing efforts to educate the public, NACA said it is providing resources and support for those who need information on HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. Nigerians are encouraged to visit NACA’s website (www.naca.gov.ng) for more details or call the HIV toll-free line (6222) for assistance.

    This Valentine’s Day, NACA is urging everyone to celebrate affection and intimacy with wisdom, making informed choices that ensure safety and well-being. The agency’s message is clear: “Love responsibly, get tested, and make informed decisions.” By taking these steps, individuals can not only protect themselves and their partners but also contribute to the broader fight against HIV and STIs in Nigeria. While Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and relationships, NACA emphasises that safety, responsibility, and awareness should be a fundamental part of any celebration of affection.

  • Valentine’s Day: Celebrate responsibly, NACA urges Nigerians

    Valentine’s Day: Celebrate responsibly, NACA urges Nigerians

    The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has urged Nigerians to prioritize safety while celebrating this year’s Valentine’s Day, emphasizing the need for responsible expressions of love.  

    NACA Director General, Temitope Ilori, reminded the public that love and intimacy should always be accompanied by caution, stressing that while HIV remains a serious public health concern, it is also preventable. 

    According to reports, Nigeria’s HIV prevalence stands at 1.4%, with 2 million people living with HIV while 15,000 AIDS-related deaths are recorded. 

    While urging caution, she stressed the importance of prevention and encouraged everyone to know their HIV status, as it is key to making informed decisions during the celebration and beyond.

    She said: “This Valentine’s season, let’s celebrate love by making informed choices and taking steps to protect ourselves and our partners from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

    Read Also: Offering didn’t buy our first aircraft, God bought it – Bishop David Oyedepo

    “Engaging in risky behaviors such as unprotected sex, multiple partners, or substance use that impairs judgment which can increase the risk of HIV transmission. 

    “Knowing your status is key to protecting yourself and others. Regular HIV testing should be a part of your healthcare routine.

    “We want everyone to enjoy Valentine’s Day while making choices that protect their health.

    “HIV is preventable, and we have the tools to stop its spread. Love responsibly, get tested, and make informed decisions.”

    “This Valentine’s Day, show love, not just for others, but for yourself, by making safe and healthy choices”.

    Ilori also enjoined Nigerians to take advantage of Free HIV testing that is available at all Government-owned hospitals.

  • Stampede: Oyo warns against unregulated Valentine’s Day celebrations

    Stampede: Oyo warns against unregulated Valentine’s Day celebrations

    Oyo State Government has warned corporate bodies, event planners and anyone planning any celebration in respect of St. Valentine’s Day, to adhere to the state’s rules and regulations.

    Information Commissioner Prince Dotun Oyelade, in a statement yesterday, said many broadcast stations had been airing adverts and promotions inviting people to celebrate Valentine’s Day at venues.

    Read Also: $360m Ogoni cleanup: Senate gives HYPREP’s boss seven days to appear or risk arrest

    He said people planning such events must involve security agencies, including Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), ‘Amotekun’, Operation Burst and other security arms, to ensure logistics for orderly gathering.

    The commissioner said Ministry of Health and Hospitals Management Board must be involved in the planning, with private hospitals where necessary, to ensure medical support.

    He said anyone who flouted the directive would face the full wrath of the law.

  • Valentine’s Day: Fertility in fatality’s shadow

    Valentine’s Day: Fertility in fatality’s shadow

    By Wole Olujobi

    “Forget not in your speed, Antonius, to touch Calpurnia, for our elders say the barren touched in this holy chase, shake off their sterile curse,” decreed Roman General and tribune, Julius Caesar,  who had positioned his barren wife Calpurnia to stand on Mark Anthony’s way as the annual Roman fertility ritual got underway on the Feast of the Lupercalia.

    Even though a colossus that bestrode the entire world, the spiritual and cultural significance of the Lupercalia in the lives of Romans was not lost on this totalitarian Roman Army General as Caesar stayed glued to seize the temples of the gods in his majesty to preside over the affairs of Romans.

    On the feast of the Lupercalia, young noblemen were arrayed naked on a race course through the streets, carrying strips of leather with which they pretended to strike all the people in their way. Barren women who wanted children would stand in their path and hold out their hands to be struck, since they believed that this would bring then what they wanted (children).

    The feast of Lupercalia, the festival of fertility in Roman culture, which turned out to be the precursor to Valentine’s Day, was marked by tradition and rituals for the procreation health need of the Roman society, yet it marked the beginning of the rebellion against tradition and culture that was the heart of the clash between Roman culture and the new religion (Christianity), which was taking a firm root in the world’s first church, the Roman Catholic Church.

    The most daring move by the church was the period that Emperor Claudius 11 held forte in the Roman royal court that awed the world. But then the spirit of the new religion seized a Roman Catholic priest, Valentine, who stood to the face of Emperor Claudius to challenge his authority and the place of tradition and culture in Romans’ lives.

    For Valentine, it was against the Canon law to challenge the authority of the church. And also for Emperor Claudius, Rome would not abandon culture and tradition for the new religion.

    Now the Feast of Lupercalia, also known as Lupercal, which is also the origin of Valentine’s Day, was a pagan holiday in the middle of February, between February 13 and February 15. It was a holiday to celebrate fertility. Men would strip naked and sacrifice a goat and dog to purify the city of Rome, promoting health and fertility.

    Read Also; Row over ban on alcohol in sachet

    Lupercalia was a full month festival before the Ides of March (March 15). Therefore, within the one month period, no Christian religious activity of any sort must hold in the entire Rome as a mark of respect for the traditional Feast of Lupercalia commencing from February 13. But Valentine would not allow any let up in the resolve of the church to challenge the authority of the tradition and culture of Rome.

    Emperor Claudius 11 warned Valentine against this heresy and issued arrest threat as punishment for challenging the authority of Roman tradition. During the one month period marking the Feast of Lupercalia, no other event, particularly that of the new religion, must hold. But Valentine and his disciples would not accept that.

    Among the new converts into the new religion were young men and women who had recruited themselves into the Army of Jesus Christ led by Valentine and who were bent on challenging the authority of Emperor and the tradition of Rome.

    To assist Emperor Claudius II in his resolve against the church, he banned marriage because he thought married men were bad soldiers. Valentine felt this was unfair, so he broke the rules and arranged marriages in secret. 

    As a direct affront and assault on the tradition and the palace, Valentine and his disciples chose the same period (February 13 and 15) coinciding with the Feast of Lupercal for a mass wedding among these disciples against the authority of the Palace. When Claudius found out, Valentine was imprisoned and sentenced to death, as Claudius, drawing from the authority of his office and exercising the power of his estate, seized Valentine and hurled him into jail. Inside his cell, Valentine agonised, and his disciples wailed, but that would not break their spirits, as they resolved not to bow to the authority of the Palace and tradition.

    Buoyed by the audacity of the church, Valentine spoke from his jail and sent holy blessings to the couples in their connubial consummation in defiance of Emperor Claudius’ decree.

    Despite remonstrations from Claudius’ daughter, Emperor Claudius sentenced Valentine to death by beheading. Valentine paid the supreme price for his faith in Christ. For his belief in the primacy of Jesus in His Holiness, Valentine in death was consecrated and canonised on February 14 into the Order of Holiness and Sainthood from which the annual celebration of St Valentine’s Day on February 14 emerged.

    In the late 5th Century, Pope Gelasius I outlawed Lupercalia and designated the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day on February 14 to replace the pagan holiday of the Feast of Lupercalia.

    In essence, Valentine’s Day, in its real form and content, in the past or even now, ought to be a religious event marking the belief of the adherents of the Christian faith and love in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. It is to celebrate the sainthood of the ancient Roman Catholic priest, St Valentine. It is also the celebration of love between married couples, particularly those who suffered persecutions during courtship based on sectarian sentiments.

    However, like the Lawrence Anini’s many Benin City’s hijacks, modern day Valentine’s Day is very much a product of the various industries that benefit from it – namely, stationery, chocolate, flowers, and jewellery companies.

    Every year, billions of dollars are spent on these items, even in countries where Western holidays are frowned upon or outlawed have seen an upsurge in Valentine’s Day gifts in recent years. It is now a daylight hijack by multinationals and private individuals who cherish commerce and lechery over the spiritual essence of the Christian festival of faith and love of Christ.

    Even in Saudi Arabia, where the holiday is illegal, there is a thriving black market for red roses and heart-shaped chocolates in February, all in the celebration of the body to spite the sanctity of the soul as the temple of Christ.

    The bastardisation of the purport of Valentine’s Day (from the deep sense of the observance and reverence for the pious decencies of the holy cross to the festival of lechery and celebration of debauchery in the world) speaks loudly about the place of morals in the church and the society at large.

    From the red districts of Allen Avenue, Toyin and Ayilara streets in Lagos, Maitama in Abuja to the hearts of Benin, Ibadan, Ports Harcourt and in fact across the country, where Esthers, Catherines, Deborahs (now Debby), Marys (the supposed mother of Jesus) make a living from the auctioning of their bodies to Matthews, Josephs,  Andrews, Peters, James and Johns, the new reality in many parts of the world is that Valentine’s Day marks the annual preparation for the misfortunes of unborn children, who even before their birth, are already orphaned.

    It is also the annual festival to breed and raise a large pool of criminals under city bridges to menace the society. Ask the devotees the meaning of Valentine’s Day and they tell you Valentine’s Day is a day licensed for a free and violent sex. For them, Jesus Christ and His Cross have no place in today’s Valentine’s Day. Even Saint Valentine himself remains an anonymity!

    To stress the rot in Valentine’s Day celebration, Pastor Mike Bamiloye quipped:  “Many men will sleep on the same beds with ghosts tonight” celebrating Valentine’s Day, in what is seen as a love by death sealed in hell.

    In road accidents, drowning at the beaches and ritual murders, several devotees of Valentine’s Day lost their lives to what they do not even understand, as the fertility essence of the Feast of Lupercal, the precursor of Valentine’s Day, looms in the shadow of fatality.

    For the married couples and those who survived persecutions and other forms of hard times before sealing your love in holy matrimony in the true spirit of martyrdom as espoused by Saint Valentine, happy Valentine’s Day. May you live long to celebrate more of Lovers’ Day in good health, peace in your homes and progress at work.

    • Olujobi, a journalist and politician, writes from Ado-Ekiti.

  • Dark side of Valentine’s Day

    Dark side of Valentine’s Day

    SIR: For many, Valentine’s Day serves as a stark reminder of their single status or the absence of a significant other. This sense of loneliness can be particularly triggering for those struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem. In an attempt to numb the pain or fill the void, individuals may resort to drugs or alcohol as a temporary escape. Unfortunately, this coping mechanism often leads to a cycle of dependency and addiction, exacerbating the original feelings of loneliness and despair.

    The commercialization of Valentine’s Day perpetuates unrealistic expectations of romance and grand gestures. From extravagant gifts to elaborate dates, the pressure to impress can be overwhelming, especially for those already grappling with financial strain or relationship difficulties. Fuelled by societal norms and media portrayals of idealized love, individuals may feel compelled to engage in risky behaviours or substance use to meet these expectations or mask insecurities.

    While Valentine’s Day is synonymous with love and affection, it can also be a catalyst for relationship discord. Disagreements, unmet expectations, or feelings of inadequacy can escalate tensions between partners, driving some individuals to seek solace in drugs or alcohol as a means of coping with relationship stress. Substance use within the context of a troubled relationship not only exacerbates existing issues but also undermines trust, communication, and intimacy, further perpetuating a cycle of dysfunction.

    Acknowledging the intersection of drug abuse and Valentine’s Day is crucial in fostering awareness and promoting healthier coping strategies. Here are some steps individuals can take to combat substance use during this time:

    Read Also: Propose marriages to us as Valentine’s Day gifts, ladies open up

    Seek support, reach out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support and companionship. Practice self-care, engage in activities that promote self-love and well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies. Set realistic expectations, challenge societal norms and embrace the true essence of Valentine’s Day – celebrating all forms of love, including self-love and platonic relationships.

    Communicate openly, foster open and honest communication with partners to address concerns, resolve conflicts, and set boundaries without resorting to substance use.

    Seek professional help, if struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from therapists, counsellors, or support hotlines.

    Valentine’s Day can evoke a myriad of emotions, from joy and excitement to loneliness and heartache. By acknowledging the darker aspects of Valentine’s Day and promoting healthy coping mechanisms, we can strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment that celebrates love in all its forms, free from the shadows of drug abuse. Remember, you are worthy of love and true love begins with loving oneself and cultivating meaningful connections rooted in authenticity and compassion.

    • Ikenna Valentine Udechukwu,  <udehiyke45@gmail.com>
  • Propose marriages to us as Valentine’s Day gifts, ladies open up

    Propose marriages to us as Valentine’s Day gifts, ladies open up

    As they celebrate Valentine’s day, some single ladies have expressed concerns about what they describe as long love affairs that have never stimulated any plan for marriages.

    Some of the who spoke about the importance of the day noted that they would prefer marriage proposals to mark the day instead of the usual gifts and dinner dates their partners usually organised.

    In a survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, some ladies say the dinner was usually to deflect attention from the major discussion of marriage.

    A humanitarian worker who pleaded anonymity said that she had been dating her boyfriend for more than two years but he had not proposed marriage in spite of the love they share and his financial stability.

    “No gift can impress me at my level, he has gifted me an iPhone for Christmas except he wants to buy me a house, he should just come and see my people,” she said.

    Another lady, Miriam Dan, a civil servant, said that she had been in a relationship for more than four years, yet no formal marriage proposal in view.

    “I have given him ultimatum of this year, am not getting younger and a woman’s body is a biological clock ticking, propose and forget about gifts.

    “He only told he would marry since two years ago informally, but he has not seen my people yet,” she said.

    A hair dresser, Salome John, said that even though she started dating her boyfriend in 2023, she would like to be proposed to and would support him in running the home.

    Read Also: Eight countries that don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day

    “He is hardworking but he has not reached his breakthrough level, maybe that is what is delaying the proposal, but I can support him run the home, he should forget about gifts,” she said.

    Alheri Davou, a food vendor, said that her boyfriend had prioritised building his personal home instead of settling down.

    “I hope to be proposed to this time around not all these outings they organise. Am not impressed by that.

    “Even though he said he is building, he can marry and then we continue, because this project he is doing is over two years now,” she said.

    A civil servant who pleaded anonymity said that she had been in a distant relationship for three years and she is expecting a proposal not gifts.

    “Distance is not a barrier, technology has made things easier, he can propose on WhatsApp, I want to be surprised,” she said.

    NAN reports that Valentine’s day is celebrated on every Feb. 14 and it is usually associated with expression of affection with greetings and gifts.

    It was not initially celebrated as a day of romance until the 14th century.

    The day must have been taken from a priest named St. Valentine who is remembered for his selfless acts of help for couples.

    (NAN)