Profile International Human Rights Advocate

 The Alarming State of Hunger in Nigeria and the Imperative for Food Policy Reform By Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Advocate  The recent scenes in Kaduna, where residents scavenged spilled spaghetti and noodles from an overturned trailer, highlight the distressing level of hunger that has gripped the nation. This incident, where people expressed gratitude for food mixed with dirt, serves as a tragic illustration of how deeply food insecurity has penetrated Nigerian society. Despite promises from various administrations, access to food remains a significant challenge, worsened by recent policy decisions that have pushed inflation and placed an unbearable burden on the poorest Nigerians. As inflation spikes in the wake of fuel subsidy removal and rising petrol prices, the cost of basic goods, including food, has soared. This surge is a direct hit to the common people, who, already grappling with poverty, now find even the simplest meals out of reach. The ...

 Disciplinary Measures for Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh Following Alleged Assault Incident By Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Advocate In Nigeria, the principles of accountability and justice are the cornerstones of the nation’s legal system. Abuse of authority, especially by those in public office, is not only a disservice to the citizens they represent but also a direct violation of the trust placed in them. No one, regardless of their position or power, is above the law, and this tenet applies equally to every individual, including politicians. The recent incident involving Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, a representative for Aba North & South Federal Constituency in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, emphasizes the urgent need to reinforce this principle and ensure that public officials are held to high standards of conduct. On October 27, 2024, a video surfaced online showing Hon. Ikwechegh allegedly assaulting an Uber driver outside his Maitama, Abuja res...

 The Shift from Petrol to CNG in Nigeria: Balancing Innovation and Safety Concerns As fuel prices surge, Nigerian motorists are searching for sustainable, affordable alternatives to petrol. In Abuja, for example, fuel prices recently spiked to N1,150 per liter, compelling many to consider compressed natural gas (CNG) or electric options. Converting a petrol vehicle to CNG could be an attractive solution to reduce running costs, but the transition comes with challenges that deserve thorough scrutiny. This article explores the advantages and significant drawbacks of converting petrol vehicles to CNG, especially in light of recent tragic incidents and the need for stricter oversight of conversion practices. For those who drive fuel-intensive vehicles, like V8 engines, the cost of petrol has become prohibitive. Given limited options, motorists face tough decisions: continue to buy petrol at high prices, convert their vehicle to CNG, or consider electric alternatives if financially feas...

 Egg donation has become a hope for many struggling with infertility, but in Nigeria, the growing industry raises significant ethical, legal, and societal concerns. As infertility continues to affect millions globally, egg donation offers a potential solution, especially for women with diminished ovarian reserves or other fertility challenges. However, the lack of regulation and oversight in Nigeria has led to cases of exploitation, with some fertility clinics accused of pressuring vulnerable young women to donate eggs under unethical circumstances. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infertility affects approximately one in six people worldwide or about 17.5 percent of the population. Infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse, can be a source of significant emotional, psychological, and financial distress. In Nigeria, despite having one of the highest fertility rates globally, infertility remains a gr...

 Dr. Cally Terwase Ikpe is an undisputed broadcast journalist and an icon in Nigeria’s entertainment, renowned for his visionary influence on music, media, and youth advocacy. As a veteran broadcaster, culture activist, event manager, and a thought leader in nonviolence advocacy, Dr. Ikpe has spent more than three decades shaping and elevating the Nigerian music scene. His contributions extend beyond entertainment, serving as a platform for societal change, mentoring, and empowerment of youth across the country. Hailing from Benue State, Dr. Ikpe’s educational journey is as impressive as his professional accomplishments. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language from Lagos State University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos, and an MSc in Media and Communication from the prestigious School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos. Most recently, Dr. Ikpe defended his Ph.D. thesis titled Media Reportage & the Poli...

 Analyzing the Risks and Complexities of a Private Airstrip in Nigeria: The Case of Bishop David Oyedepo's Canaanland Project The recent announcement by Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel), regarding the Federal Government’s approval for constructing a private airstrip at Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State, has sparked significant discussions. While the idea of a private airstrip may seem convenient for personal travel, it raises critical questions surrounding its management, security risks, and the role of government agencies in regulating such facilities. An airstrip is typically a small, basic aircraft landing field with one runway and minimal facilities. It is often used for light aircraft and lacks the infrastructure of larger commercial airports. In contrast, an airport is a more complex airfield with multiple runways, passenger terminals, and extensive operational facilities, designed to accommodate both private and comm...

 Politics, at its core, involves individuals who are entrusted with the crucial responsibility of decision-making and policy formulation. Politicians play an essential role in shaping the future of nations, leading both domestically and internationally. These individuals can be active in party politics, officeholders, or even those seeking power or advancement. However, many are often seen not as statesmen or stateswomen but as individuals more concerned with self-interest. In extreme cases, I compare them to parasites like Cymothoa exigua—the tongue-eating louse, which enters a fish, detaches its tongue, and takes its place, symbolizing how some politicians devour and replace the very systems they are meant to serve. From a historical perspective, political systems have evolved from monarchies and self-governance to the complex democratic and authoritarian systems of today. Alongside these political developments, the once fluid borders of states have solidified into the defined na...

 VeryDarkMan’s Allegations Against Femi Falana In social media activism, there exists a fine line between advocacy and defamation, one that must be navigated with caution, especially when it involves respected public figures. Martins Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), a Nigerian activist and social media influencer, has garnered significant attention due to his controversial content and criticism of medications, healthcare, and public figures. While his rise to prominence is notable, his recent actions, particularly the release of an audio recording allegedly implicating Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana and his son, Falz, in corruption, have raised serious questions about the ethics of social media activism. VDM uploaded a purported audio conversation between popular cross-dresser Bobrisky and an unidentified man. In the recording, Bobrisky claimed that Falz had reached out to him, stating that his father, Femi Falana, could help secure a presidential pard...

 How Chimamanda Was Created: Names carry more than identity; they carry stories, histories, and legacies. They are not simply labels given at birth but are, in many ways, a form of assessment. A name can reflect a family's heritage, evoke a narrative, or even challenge societal norms. Historically, names have been used to frame people, events, and places within a particular context. For instance, the "discovery" of the Americas in 1492 is a name laden with Eurocentric connotations, despite its contestation by historians today. Naming defines a perspective and reflects the values of the people who bestow it. In choosing the name Chimamanda for my daughter, I wanted to encapsulate both an ideal and a tangible connection to a narrative that is deeply meaningful. The inspiration behind her name, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, is a central figure in feminist literature and a voice that has reshaped global perspectives on gender, identity, and culture. Names are not etched onto our ...

 Baba Fryo The Legend of Ajegunle Music. Legends are more than just famous individuals; they are extraordinary beings whose stories transcend time, leaving an everlasting legacy. Traditionally, the term "legend" referred to tales of saints, but today it encompasses those whose influence has shaped history, culture, and communities. In Nigeria's music history, one name continues to shine brightly despite the evolving trends—Baba Fryo, a true legend born out of Ajegunle. Baba Fryo, born Friday Igweh, emerged from Ajegunle, a neighborhood often regarded as the heart of Nigeria's ghetto culture, yet celebrated for producing some of the country's most influential talents. Ajegunle’s reputation for churning out musical stars in the 1990s made it a fertile ground for unique street sounds, and Baba Fryo stands as one of its most iconic products. His story is one of grit, supple, and triumph—a "grass to grace" narrative that has inspired countless individuals bot...

 Nico Gravity: A talented artist from Ajegunle's Musical Legacy Nigeria's music industry has seen an extraordinary rise in global prominence, thanks to the unique sounds of Afrofusion, a genre that blends elements of Afrobeats, R&B, hip-hop, and reggae. Artists like Burna Boy, Mr Eazi, and others have successfully created music that transcends borders, appealing to a global audience. However, one artist who continues to embody the authentic spirit of Nigerian music, particularly from Ajegunle, is Paul Nnamdi Okpara, popularly known as Nico Gravity. Born on January 18, 1978, for Imo State, Nico Gravity gained widespread recognition with his 2009 hit single, "I Wan Finish Timaya." This song, a playful yet direct critique of fellow Nigerian artist Timaya, propelled Nico into the limelight. But it wasn’t just controversy that made him popular. Nico Gravity's music set off with many for its entertaining yet captivating lyrics, reflective of the raw energy and authe...

 Dr. Richard Okoye has become an inspiration of hope for the Nigerian healthcare system, offering a much-needed solution to the long-standing challenges in the sector. At a time when many Nigerian elites are trooping to advanced countries in search of quality healthcare, Dr. Okoye has taken it upon himself to revolutionize the system by providing twenty-first-century health facilities right here in Nigeria. His efforts have not only restored hope but have also shown that world-class healthcare is possible in Nigeria. As the founder and chairman of the Save A Life Group, Dr. Okoye leads a consortium of healthcare entities, including Save A Life Medisoft Limited, a software development company based in the USA, and a chain of ISO Certified Hospitals with a remarkable status of zero hospital-acquired infections. His latest accomplishment is the completion of the first fully digitalized hospital in Nigeria, equipped with state-of-the-art technology. This facility offers cutting-edge me...

 Plants in the Bible Ancient Remedies for Health By Daniel Okonkwo Profile International Human Rights Advocate The Bible is filled with stories that have guided generations spiritually and morally, but it also holds a wealth of practical knowledge, including references to plants that were used for medicinal purposes. Though many of these references are rooted in religious contexts, they offer insight into ancient wisdom about natural remedies, with applications that remain relevant today. As we explore these plants, we can see their continued value in promoting health and healing. Black Cumin Seeds: The Ancient Superfood One of the most remarkable plants mentioned in religious and historical texts is the black cumin seed (Nigella sativa). Revered for its healing properties, black cumin seeds are said to cure a wide variety of ailments. Known for their ability to stimulate the immune system, they also show potential in fighting cancer cells. Even the famous ancient Egyptian pharaoh,...

 Mental Illness and the Challenges in Nigeria: Mental illness is a global issue that impacts millions of people, yet in Nigeria, it is often misunderstood and stigmatized. Many Nigerians perceive mental illness as a spiritual problem due to limited awareness and education on the topic. In some traditions, especially within the Igbo and Nri cultures, there is a deep-rooted practice of investigating the family lineage for any mental health issues before marriage, aiming to avoid bringing mental illness into future generations. While this practice reflects an acknowledgment of the potential for mental illness to persist in families, it also highlights a broader misunderstanding of mental health conditions as something to be avoided rather than treated. This article explores the nature of mental illness, how it can be managed, and what the government and society must do to improve mental health care in Nigeria. Understanding Mental Illness A mental disorder is characterized by a clinic...

 Twins have always fascinated the world, often sparking curiosity and intrigue due to the unique biological processes involved in their conception and development. While the general public is more familiar with identical twins, who share almost identical genetic makeup due to the splitting of a single fertilized egg, fraternal twins, or dizygotic twins, present a different story. These twins are formed when two separate eggs are fertilized by two different sperm cells, leading to an array of possible genetic combinations. This article delves into the science behind fraternal twins, including rare and astonishing cases such as heteropaternal superfecundation. The Biology Behind Fraternal Twins Fraternal twins occur when a woman releases two eggs during a single menstrual cycle, and each egg is fertilized by a different sperm. This process is known as dizygotic twinning. Unlike identical (monozygotic) twins, who share the same genetic material, fraternal twins only share about 50% of...