Mar 8 Update: Third Prize Winner in Group 2
Finalist in WLP’s Youth Essay Contest Group 2: 18-25 Years
Eyinade Adedotun, Nigeria
He fixed a trance-like stare at the poster. He couldn’t believe his eyes. He had only spoken to her only a week just before the Christmas break. The obituary read she had ‘passed on to glory’. As if to mock death, her age was conspicuously displayed beneath her picture: thirty four. It was not the ubiquitous brief illness that is wont to kill people these days. The culprit was something he had thought her hard-earned middle class status had shielded her from. She died during childbirth, leaving a baby girl in the cold.
Before now it was the stuff of cold statistics that one was quick to dismiss as the antics of fund-seeking NGO operatives who mouthed gloomy facts about hapless women who are dying daily from labour complications. Hearing in quick succession the death of two otherwise comfortable women whom I had erroneously thought were immune from the reach of maternal mortality -the exclusive preserve of the dirt poor – made me rethink the issue especially how it affects a significant part of our population.
Nigeria Doorway (cc) World Bank
For the record, Nigeria sits numbly at number two on the maternal mortality list, posting a frightening 1,100 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births1. Aside other issues – domestic violence, female genital mutilation, widowhood rites and other forms of discriminations – that conspire to make the lives of Nigerian women a living hell none seems life-threatening like maternal mortality.
Maternal mortality is fed by myriad of other issues that verge on social inequities and it is little wonder that the scourge is at its deathly prominence among Nigeria’s poor. The age-long causes of maternal mortality are hemorrhage, infections, malaria, high blood pressure and unsafe abortion. These public health issues in themselves are symptomatic of larger ills like the dearth of information on family planning, early marriage (predominant in the northern parts of Nigeria), unaffordable cost of health care, poor hygiene and nutrition. The aforementioned risk factors often get periodic mention at talk shops and other conferences, where they are deplored and denounced to no avail. The cosmetic efforts at tackling maternal mortality, if anything, underscores the perennial abdication of the Nigerian government’s responsibility to ensure the rights of women to health care, access to family planning services and the right to non-discrimination.
Despite being a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), Nigeria continues to fail to meet its obligations. There have been failed attempts to get the National Assembly to domesticate the convention. On the pretext of religion and culture, legislators are still foot-dragging over sections of the convention that are practicable in the Nigerian context while hapless women are lost to needless death. My little faith in the ability of the proposed bill at the National Assembly to achieve its intended end – a skepticism fuelled by previous failed promises – impels me to seek alternative solutions.
One of the major factors that complicate maternal morality is the near absence of affordable emergency obstetric services. In a country where the significant part of population lives below the poverty line2, bringing emergency and mobile obstetric care to pregnant women will significant reduce needless death. One of the ways of doing this is to build the capacities of traditional midwives and caregivers that abound in rural parts of the country. A UNICEF report says that 35 percent of births are attended by skilled health professionals3. Civil societies and well meaning organizations can partner to train and certify birth attendants on how to provide hygienic and timely care to pregnant women during childbirth.
While other public health issues like tuberculosis, malaria and notably HIV/AIDS receive significant attention, maternal mortality is hardly the subject of donor agencies and charities. Civil society groups can lobby corporate organization to donate a significant part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) vote to tackling maternal mortality. A pool of CSR funds could go into the procurement of Oxytocin, a drug that has the potential to manage hemorrhage at childbirth, for health centers in rural. By making Oxytocin available to women during labour, we would have succeeded in halving maternal mortality by half. Half of Nigeria’s maternal deaths are due to postpartum hemorrhaging4.
The media also has a role to highlight some of the preventable causes of maternal mortality. Instead of reinforcing some of the discriminatory practices against women, it should challenge Nigerians to think and question existing convention on issues like early marriage and female genital mutilation. The popularity of Nigerian home video industry, Nollywood could be explored to put these issues on the front burner of discourse even in the recesses of women ensconced in purdah.
While the civil society continues to push for the total domestication and enforcement of CEDAW at the national assembly, young people can be the purveyors of the right information on tackling these issues. The mandatory youth service program (National Youth Service Corps) for Nigerian graduates can provide individual and collective platforms for youth to confront maternal mortality. Graduates posted to worse affected rural areas for the program can create awareness and engage local communities on better hygiene and use of insecticide treated nets to treat malaria-related deaths. Focus groups can be formed to pool resources to tackle and provide help to vulnerable women.
Ultimately, government needs to develop the political will to enforce existing legislations that criminalize prevailing practices that are discriminatory and harmful to women. If preventable maternal mortality continues to threaten the life of women unchallenged then we stand the risk of having a pool of orphans who may invariably grow to become the dregs of the society. Like smallpox, we can collectively consign maternal mortality to the footnote of history if the aforementioned approaches are employed and increased commitment is paid to the fight. We can walk the talk.
1 Visit the webpage: http://data.un.org/Data.aspx?q=Nigeria&d=MDG&f=seriesRowID%3a553%3bcountryID%3a566 [Accessible as of Jan 26, 2010]
2 Visit the webpage: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ni.html [Accessible as of Jan 29, 2010].According to the report, an estimated 70% live below the poverty line.
3 Visit the webpage: http://www.mediaglobal.org/article/2008-10-09/problems-and-solutions-of-maternal-mortality-in-the-developing-world [Accessible as of Jan 26, 2010]
4 Visit the webpage: http://www.irinnews.org/Report.aspx?ReportId=84689 [Accessible as of Jan 26,2010]
Finalist in WLP’s Youth Essay Contest Group 2: 18-25 Years
Eyinade Adedotun, Nigeria
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February 27th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
Eyinade, I love this piece. I hope it gets to the eyes of many people so we can start taking action fast…else we lose our women…our mothers…our wives…the best kind to humanity to this menace.
Seeing women die as a result of child bearing is heart breaking…
We all have a stake…lets do something
February 28th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
This essay is well-researched and it deals with the issue head-on. I just hope the recommendations can be globally implemented to help eradicate this scourge.
February 28th, 2010 at 6:53 pm
I appreciate the indepth and expository nature of this essay. It really makes me want to cry because I had lost a VERY DEAR one, in this modern day, to complications during pregnancy. I would not want to talk much. I pray the relevant authorities pace up faster!
I have a feeling you’ll do so well as a researcher. keep it up. I see you far beyond here in the nearest future. I have a strong conviction that you will sure make it. All the best, ever.
March 1st, 2010 at 3:24 am
Great stuff! Well researched piece which tells the world the plight of a Nigerian woman.
March 1st, 2010 at 4:05 am
Escalating figures in maternal mortality statistics is a grave reality which betrays the value placed by the Nigerian society on the fairer part of nature – Women in child-bearing. If those of us who had the privilege of mothers compare notes with those denied this awesome gift of the Divine, we will take more concerted action to preserve the lives of our women at child-birth. Interestingly enough, there are student and youth groups that have been on the vanguard of ‘walking the talk’ like ‘Dotun posits. The All NIgeria United Nations Students and Youth Association (ANUNSA) at the University of Ibadan for instance between 2006 – 2007, during my tenure as President had local monitoring groups involving school students and visited rural hospitals on the outskirts of Ibadan, Nigeria to donate medi-care and logistcs for improving maternal health. We made sure we delivered value by concerted local action on all Eight MDGs.
Where a mother does not have the opportunity to take care of her child because she passed on at child birth, the reaction of society to the child is one of non-concern at the best. We currently lack a proper structure to ensure the positive social integration of these children. When the institutions exist (other than faith-based outfits), they are poorly funded and consequently leave a lot to be desired in terms of management.
From involvement with juvenile offenders, working with the Bowels of Mercy (a student-run charity based in the Uniiversity of Ibadan)the pre-dominant theme underlying many cases of juvenile delinquency is parental neglect of which the maternal care/supervision is key. The list of negative effects are endless… and costly too
We might not be able to fully quantify in dollar terms the social and economic implications from maternal mortality. What we can quantify is the care and attention we give to the next pregnant woman we come in contact with. We can monitor their health, encourage them to eat healthy, make tasks easier for our pregnant co-workers, employers can by policy approve all their medical check-up dates and end discriminatory corporate policies, assist when there is a medical emergency and generally become our mothers’ keepers.
If government is not acting at par. We Can! We can only say we are successful, when we greet every ex-pregnant woman ‘E Ku Ewu Omo o’, and the mother and baby are alive from then till the second bith-date of the child. If our mothers survive, we survive. Good work, Dotun.
March 1st, 2010 at 4:44 am
How did the UN come about the maternal mortality rate in Nigeria? How credible is the Nigeria maternal mortality rate released by the UN?
In an essay, you’re trying to convince doubting-thomases. So if you’re gon’ convince, think like one.
March 1st, 2010 at 5:27 am
I must thank Adedotun for bringing to the fore this truly alarming matter we usually consign to the backburner. Indeed one fails to realize the brevity of the issue until the death of a relative or friend.
I strongly support the idea of a grassroots approach to tackling the problem such as the utilization of our graduates undergoing the National Youth Service Programme. I must confess that I have little faith in the passing of the bill by the National Assembly and consequently, the enforcement of the content of said bill.
I believe (sadly though) that we must accept that our best chances at saving our women are hinged on how much we publicise this issue. Maybe when the awareness level has arisen we shall truly be able to “walk the talk”.
Should I on this note congratulate Adedotun on his contribution towards saving the the lives of our women? I believe I should.
Thanks Adedotun. All the best.
March 1st, 2010 at 5:40 am
I think you have just painted the real picture of maternal mortality in Nigeria. And if I am going to say it the way it should be said; the media people would hardly paint it better than you. To me, it is a detailed interesting piece and I want to encourage you to keep it up. Let us keep saying it the way it should be said, may be one day- their(Our Leaders) ears would be opened.
Meanwhile,if you wish to publish it in the national daily, I would not hesitate to present it to my editor for publication in The Guardian Newspaper.
March 1st, 2010 at 5:43 am
Well done Eyinade, the urgent need to focus on how to eradicate this ugly trend in our society cannot be over-emphasized. Its quite alarming that in 2005, there were an estimated 536 000 maternal deaths worldwide. With severe bleeding, infections and obstructed labour topping the list of the major causes of death, a solution in earnest is inevitable.
March 1st, 2010 at 5:47 am
The time to act is now and the starting point is the implementation of Dotun’s recommendations on the subject. Dotun, thank you for a well researched essay. We ALL must collaborate with WLP to correct this trend before we witness the end of our generation! Kudos to WLP. I’ll sure tell others about this great initiative.
March 1st, 2010 at 6:09 am
I found this quite insightful…great work. The issue affects us more than we think… a few weeks back i learnt that a lady (in the late twenties) working with one of the ‘Big four’ consulting firms in Lagos Nigeria, died from complications while having her first child…then I thought: can maternal mortality be this real. Apart from the provision of oxytocin to prevent bleeding,the importance of prompt medical attention, availability of experienced and well trained personnels, and adequate medical equipments to attend to cases of emergencies can not be over emphasized. I do hope this gets to the attention of the relevant authorities. Excellent work Dotun.
March 1st, 2010 at 6:23 am
Interesting and eye opining. This is a must read for people in authority.
March 1st, 2010 at 6:39 am
Hey Eyinade…this is a great and very interesting piece.
Thank you for flashing the light on this much rather ignored cause of mortality. Never knew the statistics for maternal death was quite high. I strongly believe the recommendations you made are very …..very practical and will go a long way to reduce maternal deaths not only in Nigeria but also in other under-developed African countries.
Welldone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 1st, 2010 at 10:00 am
This is educative, informative and life sustaining and it is hereby recommended as a must to read.
Dotun keep up the good work. Job well done
March 1st, 2010 at 10:09 am
Good one here Adedotun. In addition, messages on maternal mortality can be sent to people’s mobile phones with the support of the Telecom companies periodically to further increase awareness as this means of communication is fast gaining ground even in rural areas.
Keep up the good work.
Cheers
March 1st, 2010 at 10:50 am
This is a wonderful piece, it captured the true state of things. Your recommendations are realistic and practical and if adopted, will go a long way in reducing the incidence of maternal mortality rate in Nigeria and in Africa.
Keep it up.
March 1st, 2010 at 10:54 am
Maternal mortality rate really calls for prompt attention in such a country like Nigeria, where the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer.if care is not taken, nigeria might eventually top the maternal mortality.These recommendations should be diseminated to the right quarters and possibly, execution should be monitored. WLP initiative is really appreciated for this great work.
This masterpiece is sophisticated,educative and informative,Adedotun, you’ve done well.Bravo
March 1st, 2010 at 11:11 am
its seems Nigeria only pops up during the formulation of negative statistic figures..terrorism, corruption and now maternal mortality. Its heartbreaking even in Africa where poverty and disease is a common issue. i sincerely think private institutions and NGOs should intervene since the government has failed the people. Invariably we provide our own electricity,houses, water, food, water,food and even security We can and should provide a system for our healthcare.
March 1st, 2010 at 11:39 am
Dear All, I have found this piece stimulating and exciting.
Dotun, you have left out 3 key factors that affect maternal mortality in Nigeria
1. Attitude of medical practitioners in public hospitals: they have a bad attitude and they treat patients (including pregnant women) as if they are doing you a favour, not as caregivers and we lose a fraction of women due to their negligence and uncaring attitude
2. Religion: many women do not access adequate healthcare because of religious beliefs. In the North, male medical doctors are seldom not allowed to treat women, and there are more male doctors than women ones. Even in the South, a lot of women go to mission houses for delivery, where the mother will be adequately prayed for and might recieve inadequate medical attention.
3. Power: The erratic nature of power supply in nigeria has made the delivery of healthcare cumbersome. I have hear operations been done under the dim candle lights. How can you expect such to be precise, or when a delivery is going on and there is a power outage, it becomes very difficult for you to deal with such a scenario.
However, despite these challenges, i feel that if our government and leaders have and demonstrate a strong political will, maternal mortality can be greatly reduced.
Finally, Emeka, Nigeria is not only known for negative statistics; when it comes to telecoms, we are currently enjoying the fastest growing market in sub-saharan africa and we are attracting the largest investments. Our literacy rate is also fairly average and HIV prevalence rate is on the decline, so it is not all bad news for the nation.
March 1st, 2010 at 1:34 pm
Leadership sees action in the midst of crippling statistics. As a nation, we must continue to see and chart a way out of the endless challenges we face. You have highlighted these paths. The pressing challenge, now, is, can we move from intentions to commitment. Hopefully we WILL. Thanks for setting the stage of discourse, Eyinade.
March 1st, 2010 at 1:57 pm
It’s intense and still marvels me how one can transcend a previously oblivious issue to our pertinence. We tend to consider every thing except the important ones, and I am indeed glad that I read this article.
It has brought to light an aspect of our daily lives that we all need education on to aid actions that will mitigate against it.
Nice one Dotun, you might have started something that could impact a generation that is quickly learning to take aerious issues seriously.
March 1st, 2010 at 2:21 pm
well research and educative piece, this piece doesn’t just highlight the causes of maternity death but also offers solution to the problem. lovely piece
March 1st, 2010 at 4:27 pm
This brilliant piece has a therapeautic effect on our intellect and as well as on our culture. it draws the curtain between hope for a better health care and the future of the Nigerian women.
The philosophy of fighting Maternal mortaility as not only been brought to the fore on the dignity of human life. This article attacks maternal mortality as a tool for cultural and moral re-engineering.
The discuss on Nollywood and the frightening statistics has made a case for maternal mortality – a critical state of emergency.
The political will mention sums up the starting point from Government but it doesnt disabuse NGO’s from taking on the gauntlet in appealing to humanity to conquer this stooge..
Eyinade has helped the nation to produce what her leaders have failed to do…..Such a brilliant piece often comes in trickles in the cascades of history…
March 1st, 2010 at 7:41 pm
Some touching writeup. You’ve successfully got many of us thinking about stuff we’ve not been privileged to feel were big issues. I hope such factual information would fall into the right hands and be used to help tackle these issues head-on. ‘Mothers’, to an extent are our golden eggs. Lets guard them jealously….
Cheers my brother; Good job
March 1st, 2010 at 8:16 pm
I wonder how insensitive on the part of our political leaders about the welfare and health care of women at their delivery stage. Our silence is more dangerous. This is our time to change the life of our people. A healthy citizen is a healthy nation. There is no better time than now to effect change as to bring political will to improve the health system of women. Dotun, this a wonderful article, please continue we shall soon achieve our collective goal.
March 2nd, 2010 at 1:09 am
Great job!!!
March 2nd, 2010 at 1:51 am
The sad thing about pieces like this is that they end being JUST one of those very good attempts at bringing to the fore the myriad of problems facing Nigeria but which usually end up on only being discussed by the people it affects and not the people that should act on it.
With our beautifully crafted national health care policy Nigeria should be past issues like maternal and child health care, but because we are steadily saddled with unresponsive and irresponsible governments, we often have health care at the back burner when discussing issues of national importance.A myriad of poorly equipped hospitals litter the country’s landscape, staffed by very demolarised and poorly trained staff.
Having for long taken a position of indifference to any issue Nigerian, reading this piece reminds me of the sorry state of the country in which many mothers are struggling to exist in…a very sad story given the endless resources the country is blessed with.
March 2nd, 2010 at 5:16 am
This is revealing!
It is ‘heart-aching’ to know that maternal mortality has not been brought to minimal, even if it proves difficult to eradicate. To know that women are lost to complications at child birth is saddening and it got me asking some questions:
Is it the poverty level in a country, lack of education/enlightenment, or the negligence on the part of the leaders(government)?
Some expectant women will not even register for the ante-natal, where they can be enlightened, while some will prefer to seek traditional help for child birth; now tell me how healthy the child born under this circumstance would be!
I still feel the whole thing boils down to educating, and enlightening the masses on the dangers;
-let the Government pass the bill to protect women and expectant mothers into law
-let the masses rise to the help of our women.
-let the Government put in place, a medium whereby,even the remote part(rural dwellers) can be reached, and enlightened, and sensitized.
but my question is ‘how do we get these information to the people through other medium apart from internet, for easy access?’
Dotun, this is a great expository, this piece shouldn’t end here, You and I have a lot to do!
March 2nd, 2010 at 7:48 am
i appreciate the indepth and expository nature of this essay.This is educative, informative and life sustaining infact its a lovely job you have done here.
keep up the good work
March 2nd, 2010 at 9:01 am
What a brilliant expository piece you’ve brought forth.It is an eye opener calling our attention to issue we’ve never considered or paid much attention to.Think the time for change is now,haven highlighted the possible ways out of this mess.Thanks for making the voice of the voiceless heard,you are indeed a great writer.
cheers
March 2nd, 2010 at 9:21 am
In a long while, I have not perused an article with a comparable depth of richness and sound judgement as this piece. It clearly reflects the true state of the entity called Africa as far as maternal mortality is concerned.
It is high time relevant authorities and oganiations saddled with the responsibilities of addressing this anomaly in our culture stood up to fight.
Furthermore, beyond the corporate struggles by relevant authorities, every African voice deserves to be heard as we collectively fight maternal mortality to extinction.
March 2nd, 2010 at 9:41 am
This’s simply a master-piece.like a dreaded disease maternal mortality has sipped through d pores of once happy families n ravaging their joy almost irredeemable.As i write this piece, it’s not in doubt that over a thousand women would’ve died during child birth today.I agree no less with Rotimi concerning d lacklustre n insensitive dispositions of some of our health workers-assassins if u like.Most maternal mortality cases witnessed are as a result of contributory negligence from them.Yet, i aver to ‘ur recommendation on d imperative of strengthening our midwifery system.It goes without equivocation the fact that because of d harsh economy,most women in Nigeria, cannot afford d luxury of modern health facilities.Hence, they resort 2 midwives.In all, Dotun’s piece continues 2 remind us of this stack realities that steers us in the face.With synergy from all concerned, it’s hopeful that the tide could be stemmed.
March 2nd, 2010 at 11:54 am
This piece of art makes an interesting read, no thanks to the statistics you brought to the public pitch and the nifty solutions you seem to be proffering to the cheap death that comes as an offshoot of poor maternity services. The solutions are not ones that are above one’s head. They are simple enough to solve the complex problem that the loss of a mother’s life brings with it. The loss of a mother is tantamount to the inestimable loss of a nation
Ours unfortunately is a society with the head positioned where the leg should be. I agree strongly with you that individuals, corporate organisations and civil societies are on the best platforms to see the problem and push it off the cliff of humanity. My earlier assertion about our society is predicated on antecedents and happenings in the present. Maternal mortality is a blend of Latin and Spanish to those who are entrusted with policy formation in this line. It is not to say there aren’t interventions but the obvious is that just enough is being done to keep the pen of people like Adedotun at rest.
I recall watching an honourable on National Television who in debunking an early claim on the number of lives lost at an incident said – ‘… just 24 people died.’ For him 24, was just and just! I don’t have an idea of what the other essays look like, but I can safely submit that yours is worthy of another look by the conveners of this idea.
March 2nd, 2010 at 12:11 pm
This write up is highly informative and stimulating.I strongly hope that in the nearest future we would have a government pay a heavy attention on maternal health care,especially for the rural women the vast majority that suffer from maternal mortality.
March 2nd, 2010 at 1:28 pm
THIS IS SO GREAT AND I MUST CONFESS THAT U HAVE DONE IT THIS TIME, ADEDOTUN.
THE POWER THAT BE SHOULD DO EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO PUBLISH THIS WRITE UP IN THE DAILY NEWSPAPER NOT ONLY IN NIGERIA BUT ALSO IN THE GOOGLE SO THAT PEOPLE MOST ESPECIALLY THE AFRICAN WOMEN AND MOTHERS CAN BE SENSITIZED ON THIS ISSUE.
EYINADE, THIS IS A LANDMARK ACHIEVEMENT AND WHILE I AM WISHING YOU THE VERY BEST , I WANT YOU TO KNOW FOR WHAT IT WORTHS THAT THE SKY WILL ALWAYS BE YOUR BEGINNING BECAUSE YOU ARE SOARING LIKE EAGLES.
March 2nd, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Dotun,
This is a great piece and i do hope all issues raised would be considered by stakeholders for adequate intervention program.
Nice one and wish you all the best.
Cheers
March 2nd, 2010 at 2:30 pm
A brilliant commentary. But what to do? This is the more important part of Eyinade’s intervention. In this regard, I think we should play up the need for responsible governance, the lack of which has resulted in the failure of Nigeria’s health sector and every other human development index. Nigeria is a country in dire need of leadership and good governance. The people pay the price for this – particularly women, children and all underprivileged persons. Lack of access to affordable health care, resort to untrained traditional birth attendants, obnoxious cultural and religious practices which rob women of healthcare decision making powers, the collapse of the country’s healthcare system all contribute to the rise in maternal morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. The scourge of poverty must be tackled, the rights of women to take healthcare decisions must be defended, massive public enlightenment will be required and as Eyinade argues, government must show the political will to act: this will include placing a greater emphasis on human life. In Nigeria, at the moment, mortality is taken for granted; needless deaths do not attract outrage, a country where corpses litter the streets and innocent persons are slaughtered for their religious or political beliefs provides the objective conditions for the neglect of an important subject such as addressed by Eyinade. Sad, not so?
March 2nd, 2010 at 2:36 pm
I am so glad your essay touches on the most salient point…policies play a huge role. No pregnant woman or women who have just delivered should be turned away from medical services just because they cannot afford the fees.
Not only should we criticize the unavailability of professional services…what about the professional services available which are sometimes so inefficient. In addition to postpartum hemorrhage, simple but significant actions like administering RhoGAM to prevent Rh sensitization and unprofessional perinatal practices hike the incidence of maternal mortality in our country. Consider the quack cesarean sections that result in uterine rupture or infections due to non-sterile procedures and such practices as not washing hands between patients. In most cases these women are ‘discharged’ home only to die within days. Consider ineffective education of women both ante & intra partum; booklets handed out at antenatal checkups can’t be understood by many and so majority are ignorant of red flags that make a physician visit in the early postpartum period necessary. I believe appropriate laws should be put in place and I know essays like yours will show the world that a lot of work still needs to be done concerning the care and voice of our women.
Again, I say ….a lot depends on policy and politics!
March 2nd, 2010 at 3:12 pm
I AM ELATED TO READ THIS AWESOME AND EDUCATING ARTICLE FROM AN ERUDITE AND SAGACIOUS FRIEND:YOU HAVE GIVEN SOLACE TO FOLKS WHO URGENTLY NEED ANSWERS TO QUESTION ABOUT MATERNAL MORTALITY.
IT PERTINENT TO NOTE THAT THE RATE OF MATERNAL MORTALITY IS INCREASING ON A DAILY BASIS.THIS IS A CLARION CALL FOR GOVERNMENT TO WORK ASSIDUOUSLY THROUGHT THE CONTRIVANCE OF AN EFFECTIVE METHOD TO COMBAT THIS MONSTER:SO THAT WE CAN ALL HAVE CURSE TO SMILE IN THE NOT TO DISTANT FUTURE.
KEEP IT UP.
March 2nd, 2010 at 3:39 pm
Dotun, Thank you so much for such an enlightening piece. I really identify with your essay because , maternal mortality for me, is almost a weekly reality given the nature of my job. Almost every week, I see or hear about women of various ages and backgrounds who walk in to the hospital to have their babies and are driven out in hearses. The issue of maternal mortality is also another very sad commentary on the pathetic state of 21st century Nigeria.I have read through comments passed by others and many of the points raised are very valid.
Another major cause of maternal mortality other than those raised earlier is the menace of mission homes. For those who do not know, mission homes are churches turned pseudo maternity centres. Most are ill equipped and do not have the facilities for even basic obstetric care. Ignorant women are cajoled, forced, deceived, induced and even coerced into coming to give birth in such homes under the guise that delivery of children is only safe and secure when done in such homes because of the effect of the prayers that go on there.
It is so appalling because you find women who have actually received ante natal care in good private hospitals or government hospitals going to such homes immediately labour sets in. These homes have no idea of the medical history of the woman or possible complications that should be anticipated. Unfortunately for some of these women, complications may arise during the process of labour and they end up being referred to hospitals half-dead. Often times, nothing can be done to salvage the situation. Women need to be told that hospitals are for having babies and churches are for praying and worshipping God. The churches, civil society organisations and the media all have a role to play in disseminating this message.
In spite of all that has been said, I am consoled by the fact that in the Chinese language the term crisis and opportunity are represented by the same word. In that view, our crisis of being poor, hungry, and disenfranchised therefore represents in fact our deployable idle capacities to challenge maternal mortality. I have realized that nothing can be solved until we acknowledge that one dream is ending and another waiting for us to recognize it. Only then will we open ourselves to solutions we haven’t yet considered or invented, to more inclusive and thrilling successors to outdated ideas. The challenge therefore to all of us today is that we need to get informed, educated and proactive about maternal mortality. We all need to tackle maternal mortality in whatever we can and in whatever situation we find ourselves. It is only when we do this that our country can begin a realistic march towards achieving the Millennium Development Goal of reducing maternal mortality.
March 2nd, 2010 at 3:45 pm
This is a great piece indeed.Very informative and highly enlightening as well.I believe this is a wake up call to the political office holders in Nigeria to wake up from their slumber of enriching thier pockets and embrace this noble course of being their sister’s keepers.Nigeria leaders should get their priorities right and give issues like this urgent attention.Good health care is a basic need of any society which a responsible government must pay attention to and I believe Nigeria should not be an exception.Dotun,your write up will definitely go a long way in gearing people towards putting more action to this revelation you have shown us.Kudos.
March 2nd, 2010 at 4:08 pm
Hello Dotun, Great Work well research and educative and informative. This is a must read for people in authority. I mean our own leader gan gan.
Once again Kudos to U.
March 2nd, 2010 at 4:40 pm
Dotun,
Your write up is a master piece and it deserves to win the Essay competition. Your style of writing is superb, you have come of age, and i hope you mentor Dr.Reuben Abati will be kind enough to publish it in the Guardian Newspaper.It is a most read for everybody and a wake up call.
Well done! am proud of you.
Linda
For:AfriGrowth Foundation
March 2nd, 2010 at 7:27 pm
Rotimi Olawale touched on some additional salient reasons for this incredible rate of maternal mortality. Let me add that maternal mortality is just one of the many unintended offshoots of the foundational problem of underdevelopment. This ill is not pertinent to Nigeria but the statistics do compare pretty well across the developing southern hemisphere.
An additional reason fairly touched by Dotun is the level of awareness/education. There are cases where helps are actually available but they are not used because the women in question believe they dont need it because their ancestors didn’t give birth ‘artificially’. I feel in addition to stimulating the government to provide better healthcare facilities in the rural areas, we as a society also need to intensify the campaign to these rural women to make use of these amenities. Ignorance plays a major role in making the data as big as it is and it is sure one of the ills we need to fight tooth and nail! Ignorance is one of the many reasons that even middle class women are also victims at time.
March 3rd, 2010 at 12:51 am
While this is a timely piece, one can’t help but feel that the record (high as it may seem) is still quite incorrect. I believe that the maternal mortality rate in Nigeria may be higher than the records show. So, it makes this piece even more important. A lot is yet to be the done, however, knowledge and education is the most effective way to curb this.
Well done, Dotun.
March 3rd, 2010 at 1:06 am
The menace of maternal mortality cannot be over exerggerated, or how do one explain the sadness of losing a wife, sister, mother or a friend who accepts the responsibilty of nursing a child in her uterus for nine months only to depart leaving the most awaited gift without the care of a mother. The matter becomes that of much concern as a potential victim would not have a glimpse of what would befall her after almost a year of hardwork. Maternal mortality can be attributed majorly to two major factors.First, ignorance on the part of the victim who lack adequate knowledge on how to prevent such and secondly, negligence on the part of those who know but have failed to spring into action to avoid it through awareness program as well as provision of adequate and timely healthcare facilities.
Tubercolosis, HIV/AIDS malaria and other ailments as mentioned in the article, can be tracked early and treated with the victim having a chance to enjoy the warmness that life offers. This is not the same with maternal mortality as once it strikes, tell me what will wake the dead , meaning no remedy to soothe the harm already done. The truth is, its a dreadful “disease” that needs an urgent intervention.
Many thanks to Adedotun for such a thoughtful piece, but more than just reading and believing this truth, our global village needs an immediate action to make sure that maternal mortality is thoroughly dealt with.
It cant be over exaggerated. Once again ,many thanks Adedotun
March 3rd, 2010 at 2:52 am
In my mind
the times to walk the talk has come
to tell the world of the menace eating
deep into the collective heart
to add my voice to the voice of Eyinade
beyond the good piece
it is a bold way
calling a spade a spade
sharpening the edges of others
bold enough to take on the campaign
those who are lax, now fired up with
good language and facts
these matter is a matter for all
the criminal that robbed you lost his mother
mingled with the wrong pack
stocked the wrong hornest one day
went to jail
came out and killed someone
as pay back for the pain
Good piece eyinade.
I am now a disciple of the campaign against maternal mortality.
March 3rd, 2010 at 2:55 am
Intend to start by sending it to my friends in the papers. Good Job Dotun you have not totally left your good writing skill though you work in an atmosphere of auditing. YOU ARE ONE OF MY MENTORS.
March 3rd, 2010 at 5:01 am
what can i say adedotun,the write-up is simply splendid!what an inspiring write-up.all i can say is a big kudos to you and hope it will be chosen as the best!
Naija4 life….
March 3rd, 2010 at 5:55 am
Thanks for bringing to light this particular issue.As a female medical student it pains me to see pregnant women die from a preventable cause like Anaemia.Imagine a Nigerian woman dies every 10 mins from the complications of pregnancy.These are our mothers,sisters and friends. Something should be done fast.
March 3rd, 2010 at 5:59 am
Thanks for bringing to light this particular issue.Imagine a Nigerian woman dies every 10mins from the complication of pregnancy.These are our mothers,sisters and friends.Something should be done fast
March 3rd, 2010 at 6:07 am
Your thoughts on Maternal Mortality are quite revealing. Just to intimate you on current statistics as revealed by the Federal Ministry of Health in the last week of February 2010. The rate has dropped to 800 maternal deaths by every 100,000 live births.
In addition, i would like to emphasize the issue of education. The literacy level among the rural populace is low, thus, are out of tune with current practise and procedure in Child birth and other related issue.
Also, among the urban elites, their eating habits affect / cause complications during child birth. I think a lot needs to be done in sensitizing expectant mothers on correct eating habits.
On a final note, the mind plays a major part during labour. A positive and courageous mind will see women through even in the face of complications.There is power in positive thinking. Let us not leave it to the government, we all must stand up and act.
March 3rd, 2010 at 6:27 am
I like the fact that Dotun doesn’t look to government for solutions. in as much as we should seek good governance, we should also find alternative solutions especially when lives are at stake.
The information here is somewhat jarring for me, I have been aware of the issue somewhat vaguely but this piece has opened my eyes more. Can providing oxytocin alone slash the mortality rate by half?
Apart from the drug,Are there fruits or something that the pregnant women can take during pregnancy to increase the production of the hormone?
March 3rd, 2010 at 6:58 am
This piece of write-up by Eyinade Adedotun is quite informative as well as thought provoking. According to some of the statistics provided, 1100 maternal deaths are posted out of every 100000 live births, which puts the percentage at 1.1, taken by death during child birth alone. This is further worsened by various unhealthy practices by individuals from this part of the world.
The article does not only point out the problem of maternal mortality and its immediate causes, but also possible solutuions to these very obvious problems. This, I believe if read by those who can act, will to do so, especially if they have been non-chalant about it before now.
March 3rd, 2010 at 7:44 am
Eyinade Adedotun has done a very good job on outlining the issue of maternal mortality, but he has done one better by offering very realistic solutions. It is my desire that this article gets to the hearts of responsible and well meaning individuals that can make a difference; and that includes everyone who has read it thus far.
March 3rd, 2010 at 8:20 am
This is educative and should be seen as a headlight to expose what has been depriving our women the chance to enjoy their precious life and also make our toddlers motherless.
We need to start aggressive orientation activities to enlighten our mothers on the dos and donts during pregnancy. There are some self inflicted ailment that can together be grouped under this category but could have been curbed if good orientation programmes are put in place.
March 3rd, 2010 at 8:26 am
This is an interesting read. The use of language is engaging- this helps to draw a mental picture of the pains caused by maternal mortality.
Not only is the use of words catchy, the essayist has taken a step further by proffering tenable solutions that could be used to curb this menace in our dear country.
One can make bold to say that the issues raised by this writer are the challenges faced by poor young women in Nigeria.
Dotun has done well by taking his time to not just contribute to this issue, but also taking a position and proffering solutions that could be harnessed to better the lives of young Nigerian women.
Now that it seems our government endlessly seem to be in want of ideas, Dotun has came to the rescue with this essay.
This work is incredible. Ceaseless applauds for the writers!
March 3rd, 2010 at 8:32 am
Dotun,
First, let me congratulate you on this brilliant article. Given the passion you have displayed over the years in giving voice to pressing issues back on campus and elsewhere, I am not surprised at what you have become. I would have been surprised with anything less.
This is really good. It is not only a well-researched article, it also bring to life the very real issues and the pains associated with maternal mortality in our world today.
I can identify with this article because I have seen the devastating effect matermal mortality has on society. I have lost a dearly beloved aunt, and very recently, had to share grief with a friend who lost his wife of barely one year during the birth of what should have been their first child, and joy. The young man is still devastated, and so are we all.
It is pertinent for all of us to become aware of what the issues are, and to seek, via continuing discourse and action-oriented engagements, ways by which our world can saved these unnecessary deaths.
Thank you for being the voice we were looking for. Thank you for calling us to think and act. Thank you for offering us hope. Thanks for telling us we can win, if we would dare.
March 3rd, 2010 at 8:54 am
Thank you Eyinde Adedotun for this revealing but thought provocating write up. Its really and eye opener. This is a must read for all not just those in authorities because we are all affected.
March 3rd, 2010 at 8:55 am
Nice work Dotun, I think you did a good job pointing this issue out. But i think instead waiting for the Government and Civil Societies to do something, Women and Men too can take a proactive step in educating themselves before and during pregnancy, education will go a long way in dealing with this problem.
March 3rd, 2010 at 9:43 am
Maternal mortality has become a measure of judging the conscious care given to reproductive health of a country. The statistics on maternal mortality can arguably paint a fair picture of the state of healthcare in any paricular part of the world as well, and that should be a source of concern for any serious government.
Still, I remain a bit of a sceptic of the figures regularly reeled out by the WHO and related organizations on any health indices. The reason for this is because often in many countries of the world records are not as complete they as should be. Also, I do worry at the influence of global poitics and the pharmaceutical industry on where the dollars go (for publicity and also for the treatments).
That being said, maternal mortality is a very sad affair, where a mother gives her life (more involuntarily than not) in the process of bringing the life of another person into fruition. Childbirth is a very delicate affair.
I personally lost an ex-classmate and friend; she died during childbirth – her first pregnancy. The sadder thing is that the baby died as well. Her young husband was left devastated with nothing but ashes of his hopes for a family remaining. I do believe God has blessed him with another wife, and children, but he may never forget his first love.
I think those who are serious about fighting maternal mortality should consider getting the help of those who have lost someone – whether through communities (online, like Facebook); speaking arrangements at symposia or schools, etc.; and so on. Also, the cultural debate should be all-inclusive, gradual and respect the sensibilities of the culture in question.
Nothing can be more annoying than some suited (Western) professionals condemning, criticizing and attacking cultural institutions, in the name of knowledge or civilization: one, you get nothing done; two, you will be resisited. Culture is the identity of a people, tied to the influences they’ve encountered and the beliefs they’ve evolved over a log time; generations of trial and error. It is not changed at a meeting, nor through a press conference…
I wish that people like Dotun would be able to make a positive change with advocacy and their other methods. I do feel, though, that it will take more than advocacy to significatly maternal mortality. It will take the grace of God, and deep changes in culture, business, government and healthcare.
March 3rd, 2010 at 10:01 am
Maternal Mortality in Nigeria is a huge burden and you have done an impeccable job in painting the canvass. Congrats Dotun – I’m so proud of you!
March 3rd, 2010 at 11:54 am
The rights of women have always been undermined and it is not surprising that maternal mortality receives significant less attention. The alarming rate of maternal mortality is just one of the indices of the male-dominated society that we find ourselves.
The time for us to act is now, and it is not just about diverting funds into combating maternal mortality, it involves a reorientation on our parts right from the man on the street to the doctors and nurses in the labour room and even the family members at home.
This is the only gateway to our future.Without procreation, there is no continuity. Let us make the process less risky.
March 3rd, 2010 at 11:55 am
You can still write better! Yes you Can.
Please make figurative references to developing countries( west affica as a case study); in relation to primary health care, poverty, family planning, poulation,education and political health sector.
Also sandwitch UNICEF and United Nations 2015 Millenium Development Goal(MDG)-4 indicators/targets. SWOT analysis of NGOs and Global campaignes/Movements can preclude some points to drive home as well. Let’s be more objective!
Good job Eyin…. Good luck
March 3rd, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Great write up… very educative imust confess. i have heard about a lot of maternal moratlity but never guessed somethings like u mentioned could be attributed to it. geeez welldone.
March 3rd, 2010 at 12:59 pm
Weldone on ur educative write up. i have taken note of some valauble points.
March 3rd, 2010 at 1:13 pm
Maternal mortality in Nigeria and Africa as a whole is a big ‘problematic house’ built over the years of neglect and inadequacies of successive governments and leaders in Africa. This writeup only helps brings to light the problems that should have be dealt with before now! good work Dotun, we only hope our leaders can get to read and learn from this writeup.
March 3rd, 2010 at 1:16 pm
To have grown up knowing my mother, being nursed, groomed and trained; being protected and shielded by her love and care is truly a blessing for which anyone who experienced this must definitely give thanks to our Creator.
I know a young lady presently who was not privileged to be in this calibre of what I may call “Blessed” people; as she lost her mother the very day she and her twin were brought into this world. Growing up not knowing or experiencing the genuine love of a mother, not even being able to be suckle the breast of the one who brought her into this very world, or even be comforted or guided by her must have been a harsh experience.
Her father who also could not bear the grief decided not to let anyone into his heart again for fear that death would do the very same thing to her were he to try again.
Just the thought that the young widower had to carry the burden of training the children on his own from the day they were born up until this day without the help of his God-given companion…(sighs) and relating it to the very issue being discussed here today gives me the basis to say that truly no one in his/her right frame of mind should be excluded in this fight. We are all affected one way or the other; be it as a mother, wife, sister, aunt or daughter,cousin,. We (men and women) need to take the bold step of fighting this war.
It’s Good to know that people like Dotun are on track and I hope and pray that we all will join hands and make a positive change in implementing the very solutions being proffered here today and where necessary come up with other means of curtailing this problem.
Congrats Dotun. May we live to see this dream come true in our lifetime!
March 3rd, 2010 at 1:22 pm
True Talk! I couldn’t agree more!
March 3rd, 2010 at 1:57 pm
Dear Dotun, this is a very good piece of work. I hope this will stand out above the works of the remaining finalists. Your work was replete with researh – up-to-date. You are indeed a sough-after writer.The sky is just your beginning. I hope this piece of yours wins the trophy!
Very good work.
March 3rd, 2010 at 2:49 pm
Where a mother does not have the opportunity to take care of her child because she passed on at child birth, the reaction of society to the child is one of non-concern at the best. We currently lack a proper structure to ensure the positive social integration of these children. When the institutions exist (other than faith-based outfits), they are poorly funded and consequently leave a lot to be desired in terms of management.
From involvement with juvenile offenders, working with the Bowels of Mercy (a student-run charity based in the Uniiversity of Ibadan)the pre-dominant theme underlying many cases of juvenile delinquency is parental neglect of which the maternal care/supervision is key. The list of negative effects are endless… and costly too
The above by Beulah is so heartbreaking but true. The poverty added to lack of access will surely keep this vicious cycle going.
March 3rd, 2010 at 4:48 pm
Eyinade’s piece is a fantastic attempt to bring into perspective an issue that has weighed on the hearts of many for so long, but has not found an outlet or a point of articulation. This piece helps bring the issue to the fore, and also provides simple, practical ways Nigeria, and by extension, other nations, can work to reduce the incidence of maternal deaths.
Everyone can make a difference, and I must say that Eyinade’s piece has made a great difference for me in understanding this scourge.
This is an award-winning article, and would be a great salute to those who pay the price in toil, sweat and tears to save the lives of our wives, mothers, sisters and daughters in childbirth, as well as a wake-up call to all those whose duty it is to see that we do not lose another woman.
I hope this essay is considered worthy of the top prize.
Kudos, Adedotun. Best of luck!
March 3rd, 2010 at 10:56 pm
This article has not only described the problem, causes, consequences, and remedies of maternal mortality but also reviewed recent literature related to maternal issues. This is an evidence of an excellent research into a critical issue demanding an urgent attention. As such, this piece is worth the effort invested in putting it together and not only deserve an applause but also an award.
Well done!!!
March 4th, 2010 at 2:37 am
It is a wonderful piece, well researched and practical. I believe it is time for everyone to rise up to this challenge and find a lasting solution to this problem. I also believe that key issues relevant to this discussion is rural education and the development of the medical sector of Nigeria.
Thank you Dotun
March 4th, 2010 at 3:19 am
I admire your write up immensely this is much needed information for our time keep the fire burning
March 4th, 2010 at 3:51 am
It’s good having more committed fight against the self suicidal ethics of African leaders against the potential and gifted children and mothers that do not see beyond delivery. Very often the gains of corporate organizations blind them from focusing on the long time benefits of the fight against this scourge. A total approach that involves everyone in Africa can only bring the occurrence to a halt. By everybody I mean media, government, non-governmental organizations sport men and women, village and town heads, youth and children club etc. We all need to fight maternal mortality as much as HIV/AIDS. Let’s not be silent, for we will win if we don’t stop speaking against maternal mortality.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:51 am
This a well thought out and clearly written piece on a topic that has become a cankerworm that has eaten very deep into the fabrics of our nation.I think the Minister of healtha nd all other key decision makers in our health sector must read this and strive to reduce the rate of maternal mortality.Special attention should be given to this critical area of our health sector.Dotun was able to paint a candid picture of the problem looking at the causes,effect and making recommendation for bringing the rate to the bearest minimal.
Good work!
March 4th, 2010 at 3:55 am
Great piece!
My attention was drawn to the threat posed by maternal mortality rate this year when Lagos state unveiled a state of art maternity centre to enhance safe delivery in the state.
The maternity health centres are located at Ikorodu, Ajeromi/Ifelodun, Surulere and Amuwo Odofin,Ayinke House. I hope the NGOs will stop chasing shadows in advocating for issues that have been overflogged over the years and throw
their weight behing this evil rearing its ugly head. they should start rallying round the corporate bodies to expend their CSR on reducing the maternal mortality rate in the country.
Also, the government at every tier should follow in the steps of Lagos state and join the campaign. All stakeholders in health field should see to it that midwivery in the grassroot is enhanced and improved. The maternity health centres in the villages and towns should be equipped(facilities and personnel)
For maternal mortality rate to be reduced, all hands must be on the deck.
Once again thanks for bringing this issue that has been ignored and trivialised for so long.
I hope this awakes the government (executive,legislature & judiciary)to their responsibilities.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:58 am
A very good write up. But the challenge here is how to quickly bring the deadly issue to an abrupt end. This is why the need for responsible governance is imperative, without this we will continue to experience failure in Nigeria’s health sector and every other human development area. Nigeria is a country in dire need of leadership and people with vision to be saddled with governance. The ordinary citizen of the country suffers – especially women and children who form the majority of the underprivileged persons. No access to affordable health care, resort to untrained traditional birth attendants, obnoxious cultural and religious practices which rob women of healthcare decision making powers, the collapse of the country’s healthcare system all contribute to the rise in maternal mortality in our dear country. The scourge of poverty must be dealt with, the rights of women to take healthcare decisions must be defended, massive public enlightenment will be required and as the writer argues, government must show the political will to act: this will include placing a greater emphasis on human life. Drastic steps should be taken to stop taking maternal deaths for granted and make life more meaningful for us all. Eyinade i say more grease to your elbow
March 4th, 2010 at 4:02 am
The question I am thinking about is why the poor would be the most affected by maternal mortality. It is certainly a case for social inequity. When the government makes noise about their concerns for the poor, the sheer continuing presence of maternal mortality makes them toothless bulldogs; as we assert in a legal maxim, He who comes to equity must come with clean hands. The blame, yes, is on the policy makers. But if you are a reader of the African Cities Reader you would agree that in the city, we are meant to be hunters. We must survive. Beyond the toothless-bulldog-ness of our government, we must survive. But maternal mortality would not. Well done, Dotun, for making me question, and respond.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:21 am
Over 600,000 women die of pregnancy related causes in the world annually and Nigeria alone accounts for almost 10 percent of this figure! Information is most heeded when needed. Eyinade has passably described one of the major obstetric graves in which our country is currently entrenched, and good enough the remedy.
The UN, via its Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), expects that infant and maternal mortality rates would be reduced by more than three quarters of the 1990 figures, by 2015. Kudos to you Eyinade! Nothing else matters more than to seek means to embark on actionable plans. Spreading this crucial timely piece of information to every nook and cranny of the country will help save our women, tantamount to preserving generations unborn.
March 4th, 2010 at 5:02 am
Dear Dotun, this is a well researched paper considering the amount of time and other resources at your disposal. I would not expect your brief write-up to fully explore such a matter of generational importance.
The reality of the day is that there is information assymetry about this issue; a lot of us are still in the dark. The belief that every death is predestined, no matter the cause, prevents us seeking to undertand the causes of and how to prevent these obituaries.
However, early marriage (as practised in some parts of Nigeria) could be advantageous from an HIV/AIDS perspective. But young couples need to be properly informed about the inherent dangers and the preventive mechanism.
March 4th, 2010 at 5:14 am
Dotun.
It is sad that in this part of the world we are light years behind. Advance countries are looking for cures for cancer and Aids but are battling things like maternal mortality. It because good governance has continually eluded us. It is because of the greed and lack of innovation of our leaders and the timidity and docility of the followers. I just hope this your article would be read by all and then we beam a searchlight into our souls. and take steps to curb the little problems that plague us as a people.
Nice article. Proud of you dude.
March 4th, 2010 at 5:52 am
The World should come to the aid of Nigerians, our leaders are the worst in the World, they are white washed sepulchre, building sky scapper hositals in the cities while our women in the village will cover miles to search for health centres that are filled with wall geckos and lizards, taht is if there are available ones.
The Death Centres, I mean Health cenres inour towns have been reduced to prescriptive centres. I have two daughters that I delivered in verybad situations, I died adn resurrected in the hands of nurses when tehre were no bed for delivery, I was placed on a bench, QUITE A SWEET EXPERIENCE.
Thanks for this piece, may God judge Nigerian leaders and grant good world leaders to stop teh death of women
I wrote a piece too last year, which I titled, GIVE LIFE AND LIVE TOO, You have done so well my dear, because beautiful women are dying daily from preventable death, yes preventable death.
March 4th, 2010 at 6:15 am
Dear Eyinade,
I was awed reading your thought provoking article on Maternal Mortality especially at this auspicious period of the 15th year anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action (BPFA). You constructively challenged the Nigerian government on its lack of political will to turn statistics around in the area of Maternal Mortality in Nigeria, and you also significantly highlighted the role that potential young leaders (like yourself)could play towards redefining leadership and development in Nigeria. Keep up the good work!
March 4th, 2010 at 7:03 am
Nice piece, dotun.
It is very important that we take steps to avoid untimely death of mothers. I think a very important solution you suggested is the one that has to do with training of our “local” mid-wives, especially those in the rural areas.
They should be able to handle child bearing and expose the mothers to minimal risks when they do their job. Some of the deaths are caused by the ignorance of people that are supposed to handle child bearing.
Thumbs up!
March 4th, 2010 at 7:34 am
nice essay guy, it is really informative. I think I got a lot to learn from it. Wishing you best og grace
March 4th, 2010 at 8:20 am
Captivating piece! Eyinade Adedotun has done it once again. this issue has got to be faced squarely.for a guy to know much about where the shoe pinches when it comes to maternal mortality-an issue that affect women more means great attention should be paid to prevent it.
March 4th, 2010 at 8:33 am
the role of mothers in children’s lives is so vital and cannot be over-emphasized. It is really disheartening that in this modern age we still lose a lot of our mothers as a result of labour complications. So many babies are left motherless just after child birth and countless children are cut short from motherly love, care, affection and attention.
I lost a dear one recently and she died as a result of labour complications. The poor baby, who is also denied of fatherly love and affection, is left at the mercy of the grandmother. Measures need to be taken fast enough to save our mothers.
March 4th, 2010 at 9:43 am
This is an engaging piece. thank god people are beginning to voice out the truth of the matter
March 4th, 2010 at 10:07 am
I don’t know if I am alone in prior near ignorance of the impact of this menace on our society. This is a quite insightful, and I feel the contents should be made to reach a wider audience. I have to commend the writer
for the good research and the poignant yet instructive nature of the article.
I will advise that all stakeholders addressed in this piece should have all hands on deck to abate this hazard. From what Dotun has made us to see, I believe this problem is one that we can solve if we really put in the efforts.
March 4th, 2010 at 11:23 am
Dotun thank you, because this essay has really been touching for me. Reading through it has got me thinking on what women are really going through and what negligence and ignorance can result in.
Negligence on the part of the health officers and those in charge of taking care of women during child birth and even afterwards. Their not paying attention to details, doing the job as if it were a routine and proper care not being given to women, can result in the death of mothers or even maim them for life.
Ignorance on the part of the mothers who do not understand the delicate state in which they are in, that if proper care is not taken and appropriate drugs administered and used as it ought to be, can result in death.
I hope this write up of yours attract the proper quarters because it can help improve health state of women and reduce death rate as well…this is a good one Dotun, well done.
March 4th, 2010 at 11:32 am
This has been an oversight for lots of people as maternal mortality is being tagged with ‘destiny’.
but its high time we woke up from this slumber and face the reality side of this as most of these are self caused as a result of improper dietary amongst others.
there are a lot attached to maternal immortality;is it about the surviving child that was left behind or traumic effect on the relation………
‘Dotun thank you for the sensitization,
I strongly hope this is not gonna be limited here alone but will fly across the globe as cooperate effort is needed to combat this.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:17 pm
Honestly, nothing represents the burden of the Nigerian women more than this piece.While everyone believes that it is not criminal for our women to fulfill their natural roles as the bearers of both sexes, little has been done so far to challenge the status quo. Eyinade’s efforts at improving their lot is therefore commendable. It is a well-researched and articulated articule aimed at making the lives of the bearers of both sexes better. I am optimistic that some suggestions in this write-up will be given a due consideration by all genuine policy makers and advocates whose interest is to curb the menace not only in Nigeria but in all developing countries.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:49 pm
I must say that I have never gotten so close to information about maternal mortality in NIgeria before. Eyinade, thank you for speaking for this grossly ignored but vital aspect in our country. I like the piece. I am in for speaking and acting to save lives of mothers.
All the best.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
Dotun has again brought to the fore the need to take the issue of maternal mortality seriously.We cannot afford to allow our mothers, sisters and daughters to continue to die in unplesant circumstances.All hands must be on deck to reverse this ugly trend.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Great job, Dotun!
This is a serious probleme that need a crucial attention and solution from fron Non-Governmental Organisations and and our so call ‘Africa leaders’. i believe a continuous out-cry on this issue to the deafness of our government woould give light to this darkness ‘Maternal Mortality’ ravaging the life our women.
Who knows, this essay might be the one that would rescue our women from this untimely death and make our leaders serious in tackling this scourge.
More grace to ur Knowledge, i wish you best of luck!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
This is a very wonderful topic of discussion and it’s quite sad i had an experience. Would ask questions why ignorance becomes an excuse for defence to which most of the times are very expensive. It was not personally me in focus but my sis. She had passed on with the baby during child birth leaving two other young daughters in care of their dad & step mum. The sort of life expectancy changed. The motherly care which is the key factor of infant development was lost. Was a sad experience. Sometimes we want to ask question why the rate of maternal mortality is high but don’t know who to ask or answer to expect. Such a mysterious world
March 4th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
Dotun,This is a wonderful piece you have here. I hope it gets to the hearts of many people(especially those who involve themselves in such act) so we can start taking action fast…else we lose our women…our mothers…our wives…the best kind to humanity to this menace.
We all have a stake…lets do something and we have to do that fast.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
This is trully a burning issue of grave consequences which we have left unattended to and has taken its toll on our society. The quality of life and values in any society is determined primarily by our mothers and unless we rise up to face the challenge of maternal mortality, the future holds no future for us.
This is a real eye opener, I want to commend Mr Eyinade for bringing it out to the light where we can all see it and hopefully, take actions to deal with it before it destroys our posterity.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
This is a wonderful piece- i wasn’t disappointed. You raised a lot of salient issues in your essay; the Nigerian government is an expert on following the crowd. They are always quick to join international bodies, organizations or event but with no plan for any form of follow-up to whatever decision is reached, most especially modifying decisions to meet the peculiar nature of our country.
Our country also loves ‘free gifts’ in the form of international NGO’s running majority of the programs in the country e.g on HIV/AIDS, malaria etc. When their tenure is over we don’t have a way to sustain it.
Nigeria’s status in the maternal mortality list if frightening, most of the deaths are avoidable. EDUCATION of the girl child is of utmost important as most Nigerians are uneducated and hence rely on old-wives tale. Imagine a pregnant woman who has been knowledgeable enough to attend antenatal, and she is told she would require and elective caesarean section because of a transverse lying baby- she then goes to church to give birth because according to her ‘It’s not my portion’!!!
The point about graduates sent to interior rural areas educating the people there would be a boost.
Traditional birth attendants (TBA’s)are usually the first port of call for pregnant women in labour especially in rural areas. these TBA’s could undergo some form or formal training with award of some diploma. This could aid in their identifying life threatening cases and for speedy referral to hospitals.
Poverty, is a major contributor as most Nigerians live under $1/day, this will prevent those needing emergency/non-emergency obstetric care from getting it. If the government is able to develop and SUSTAIN a programme which will enable individuals who are not financially buoyant to recieve prompt medical care- it would help a lot.
Adequate funding of pre-existing hospitals will also ensure the availability of drugs required in obstetric care.
Abortion is still illegal in Nigeria, if only the law is enforced. It will lead to the closure of ‘abortion sheds’ being run by quacks in majority of cases especially as post-abortal sepsis is a major cause of maternal mortality in teenagers and young adults.
It’s my Prayer that the leaders of this great nation, here the clarion call and make adequate arrangements to help reduce and almost eliminate maternal mortality just like small pox.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:24 pm
This write up made me pause to think about it all. we really need to do something about women who die from child birth. it makes me want to start a campaign. this is really good
March 4th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
Dotun, you’ve never stopped impressing me ever since we met
this is a good piece anyway. please keep the good work up.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:40 pm
The issue is very germane because many people with talents and skills that could help the country have been lost to maternal mortality. Any preventable death which is allowed to take place is a crime against humanity. With the resources at the disposal of the country, we should have traveled beyond where we are on the issue of maternal mortality.
I agree with your suggestions on the way forward, especially the role of the media. If the media would be properly used to highlight the causes of maternal mortality and the government has enough will to channel funds in that direction, the problem will become a thing of the past.
The piece is well researched, the argument well put and the language apt. The piece has enriched me.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:40 pm
Hmmmm,well researched stuff. I admire the article cos you really expressed yourself well. Keep it up, a nobel awaits you in future.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
Dotun, Great piece.Permit me to modify an aspect of the essay.Making oxytocin available is good, more importantly, emphasis should be placed on its judicious use.Many women have died due to indiscriminate use of oxytocin and another agents.
Thanks for bring this timely issue into the field of public discourse once again.Our women should not die fulfilling their natural responsibilities.
keep it up.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
This is a very good write up and delves deeper into an issue most of us lke to think will not exist. I saw that poster as well Dotun.
I remember feeling goosebumps because I had met her for the first time a few weeks before and I wondered at how big her stomach was on her smallish frame. I remember feeling a wave of grief for this woman’s husband and children. I also remember thinking, God please don’t let this happen to me or any of my loved ones, then I remember burying it deep in the recesses of my mind and shutting the door on it. But you have raised those memories again, and I too have immense skepticism about what our “lovely” government can do about this awful and avoidable plight. I really like the Nollywood idea, and I think you actually have something that can be expanded upon there. I believe the solution is to push the ugly statistics to the limelight and put the power in the hands of the people. Using a medium that gains access to the average Nigerian’s home to help eradicate this issue is one such way to push this to the limelight. As much as I hate to say this, I believe the issue has to be somewhat sensationalized and dramatised to get the attention of our people, before we truly get it into our heads that it is everyone’s problem. Well done on the article Dotun, you did a great job.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
I am awed by the plethora of comments this has generated.They are more impassioned than the spark- the essay.I strongly feel that it shouldnt end here.We should continually flog this issue till those who are repositories of our mandate decide to act.we should stir them from their inertia till they start to appreciate the value of human life.we should cry from the rooftop not churches.let’s still prayers to God for a while, he has heard enough.we can use or brains and our hearts to stem this ugly tide.we have lost enough. we can banish the needless death of our mothers, sisters and wives to the dustbins of history.we did it to polio and the bubonic plague.Maternal mortality needs not be an exception.
I strongly feel that we should commence a movement to stage a watch and monitor the commitment of policy makers.enough of white and red papers.we want action.and action we shall get.
I am grateful to all those who have found time to comment.I hasten to add that it should not stop here.we can do something in our own little way: tell others the frightening yet underestimated statistics of the deaths to child birth complications; counsel against all the supposed mission homes that my friend Tosin omole says accounts for a significant number of death. And like Tayo olofinlua another finalist and friend said dont give in to fear. Yeah, it affects women and they are human too.Women rights are human human rights (apologies Baobab)
Speak up, Stand up and shout from the rooftop: Enough of needless death!
Thanks Baobab for women rights for the baptism of fire.Dr Abati, that was humbling.Afrigrowth Family, I am in a great company. and for everyone who has dropped by to comment, we have all stirred the hornest nest and it sure won’t end here.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:31 pm
Maternal mortality has for long been on the front burner of issues facing the female gender in developing countries. The dearth of medical facilities and restricted access to quality medical care is a major factor to this issue. In addition, quality health care seems to be exclusively for the top strata of the society.
In addition, life has not been made any better in developing countries where corruption has eaten into the fabrics of the society. This has made any hope of improvement in this regard very bleak in the nearest future.
Dotun has written a good piece that should acatch the attention major decision makers not just for their perusal, but for implementation of the issues raised. This will to a large extent reduce the indices of maternal mortality in the nearest future.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
It is interesting to note that the places with the lowest literacy rate in Nigeria has the highest maternal mortality rate. Unfortunately, i can’t lay my hands on the statistics that i found this from..i think it is from the NDHS (National Demographic Health Survey).
So, in solving the maternal mortality problem, we need to consider a comprehensive approach. Ensuring more people especially girls have more access to education means that they would be harmed with the necessary information and skills that will allow them to make informed decisions during child-birth.
Also, the poor are mostly affected by maternal mortality because they might not be able to afford access to health-care. Therefore, strengthening the primary health-care system and training and equipping traditional midwifery in Nigeria which accounts for a large number of deliveries in the rural areas will go a long way to reduce deaths of mother and children.
We know the problems, we have a fair idea of the solution, especially best practices from similar nations. the time to act is now. If we spend as much time as we have spent as a nation debating about the political terrain on developmental issues; thereby putting pressure on our politicians and political system, i am sure we will move further and faster. I rest my case
March 4th, 2010 at 3:02 pm
Dotun has captured in totality issues of maternal mortality in Nigeria as it is.This piece is an honest account of issues and challenges that surrounds safe motherhood in Nigeria.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
Good piece!Nigheria has a lot of potentials both human and natural resources but we are being ravaged by poverty and not that alone our women are always at the recieving end.Something has to be done to stop this trend.Recommendations made by EYINADE has to be taken seriously by the higher ups in the government.If this can be done then succour is already underway for our women.A good piece indeed.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:59 pm
Eyinade Adedotun i must commend you for such an incite,this writeup is not just a master piece it projects a heart touching issue needing urgent attention.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:13 pm
This piece brought tears to my eyes. I lost a colleague late last year. She did during childbirth. She was only 25. Incisive piece.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:16 pm
i love this piece. I hope it gets to the eyes of many people espcially those in positions of power.
But the problem is that Nigeria is still in bondage from this thing(s) called culture and religion. A culture and religion that literally enslaves women.Until something is done about them, Nigeria and African women would still suffer.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:17 pm
Its sad last week someone i know lost his wife during childbirth due to hemorrhaging. I have a lot of friends in the medical profession and i noticed like you mentioned there’s really just a lot of talk going on.
I remember in the early 80’s developed countries had already found a way to reduce their maternal mortality rate by 50%. What really get to me is that Nigeria is struggling with something that science has been able to correct with little efforts.
This is a good piece, but i’ll really like to not just read more about it but see more being done, even if i have to do more myself!!!
March 4th, 2010 at 4:39 pm
I came across this writing but didn’t really want to read it because I felt that I didn’t concern me. I am a man after all; but the first few lines caught my attention and kept me glued. Maternal mortality affects everyone; this includes family and friends. This is a brilliant write-up. It doesn’t only x-ray the extent to which maternal mortality is pervades our society much to the ignorance of the public, but also seeks to propose workable solutions to this monstrous problem. This piece is also so brilliantly constructed such that it keeps you reading to the end. I personally appreciate that some reasonable research work had been undergone before this was put together; this fact is easy to see from the figure and the references therein.
The first thing I didn’t like about this write up is the second part of the title – “dying to give hope”. As far as maternal mortality is the issue, I can say that women don’t give hope to women or any other persons by dying during or shortly after birth. I believe the reverse may be said to be the case.
I am a Nigerian and I know that Nigerian Senators foot-drag over everything that wouldn’t directly or indirectly turn into benefits for them. I think more emphasis should be made on building capacity for and regulating the operations of traditional practitioners of midwifery. This would go a long way to curb loss of young female lives at the attainment of motherhood in Nigeria. Overall this write-up makes for enjoyable reading while sensitising readers on the harsh realities of maternal mortality and Nigeria’s standing in the scheme of things. We can now all get thinking, and get doing what we can to make save a mother’s life.
Well done Adedotun.
March 4th, 2010 at 5:23 pm
Eyinade Adedotun, what’s the idea? Is it to win or to draw attention to the plight of women, especially as it has to do with the topic you’ve chosen? If it’s the former, I hope you win because you’ve written well. But if it’s the latter, then writing an essay won’t solve anything! And I say that with every sense of responsibility.
Nigeria is one of the most underdeveloped countries in the world. As grave as the high Maternal Mortality rate is, it’s not the only problem we have as a country and attempting to tackle it head-on (even with all measures you’ve suggested) will be like trying to light a fire in the rain. Indeed, it is how we have often tried to solve our problems!
So how do we rid ourselves of this ugly menace? By providing qualitative education, developing manpower, building good roads and other infrastructure, investing heavily in these: manufacturing, agriculture, technology, research and development. By simply touching every sphere of our lives and doing everything necessary to propel us out of poverty, ignorance and disease and into the league of civilised nations. In a nutshell, starting the wheels of progress – deliberately.
Only then, Eyinade, will our Infant and Maternal Mortality rates cease to be a significant statistic. I’m sure you also know that to be true.
Good luck.
March 4th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
Dotun, thank you this important piece which reminds us again of the grave social challenges that we face in Nigeria – and indeed, in the rest of the continent – even as our political leaders continue to behave as if power-sharing and the illicit benefits that they grab from the process are the most important issues in the polity.
It is grave to observe that a country that has earned over $400 billion in the last five decades from crude oil sale still posts such a high percentage of maternal mortality rate and ranks second in the global scale of this monstrous “crime”.
I am particularly struck by the way you present the phenomenon, which is often captured as a “mere” health problem, as a critical social problem with vast implications for state and society. Also, by noting and linking the efforts of different social formations and the state as a critical basis for solving the problem, you propose a more workable model that is likely to lead to the same kinds of successes earlier achieved in regard of other such medico-social challenges.
Thank you for this effort.
March 4th, 2010 at 6:59 pm
Eyinade, well done for a good job. What a well written piece.I hope and pray that appropriate steps wil be taken to correct this anomaly. All our problems can be well taken care of if the necessary but required things are done by both the leaders and those being led. We have the best human resources and at the same time,richly bless by God and mother nature. Our mothers does not deserve all these unhuman treatment. It baffles me how anyone with bloods running through their arteries and veins can be so calous to subject these innocent women to these kind of treatment. Eyinade, keep up the good work.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
Dotun, glad to know that you still possess those fabulous writing skills and still have a passion for issues like this. I am particularly proud that I know both Nigerians in this final and that both are GREAT IFE!! I am thrilled. I wish you all the best of luck.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:42 pm
Dotun, Nice piece. A ni ka tun se leekan si ni o.
March 4th, 2010 at 8:37 pm
I am not an expert in the whole gynecology thing so i will try to step gingerly I think one issue that needs to be addressed is the way women are being treated in the society or cultural burden borne by them.Imagine a 13yr old girl in labor or even a women in mid twenties being delivered of her 8th child.I read that a human body can bear up to 45 Del (unit) of pain but at the time of giving birth, woman feels up to 57 Del of pain, which is similar to getting 20 bones fractured at all at once!!!How could a 13yr old survive it? or a women in mid twenties live through the pain the 8th time?
While we may want to focus on the death itself we should also take a look at the predisposing factors such as malnutrition, pregnancy exceeding 4 times,hardwork such as pounding,carrying weights on the head,bending to mention few.And most women still will need the approval of the almighty husband before she could even do anything.The danger can be averted by simple antenatal care which will help in predicting possible complications before childbirth.Antenatal care helps communication between the women and their caregivers.Women also get educated on the issues surrounding their reproductive health. Most pregnant women show only when due for delivery or even when complications set in while being delivered by a local midwife.
While the spiritlessness and nonchalance amongst the leaders is disgusting, instead of looking up to them, we can do ourselves good by looking within for solution. But did I hear you say youth corpers? Sounds like a good suggestion We all know that most graduates will do all they can to avoid being posted to such areas considering how unbearable things could be. Even when they end up there having done all, most people resort to leaving for much more urbanized towns where they get jobs and settle scores and differences with their local inspectors and or supervisors in cash or kind. This implies one thing…corruption has eaten deep into the moral fabric of our society at all levels.
Dotun, need I tell you how proud I am of you? Well I must say that it is a great privilege knowing you and I hope this great piece of yours reaches the hearts, eyes and minds for which it is intended. It sure got mine.
March 4th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
Great combo of strong research and extremely compelling writing. It pulled me in from the top, educated me, and angered me in the most constructive kind of way. Thank you!
March 5th, 2010 at 2:21 am
It is evident that beneath the unfortunate situation we find ourselves in this country is not the lack of health care policies but rather lack of political will to push through these policies to implementation,monitor and institute feedback systems that could help to provide review and upgrade.
This is also fueled by a growing number of frustrated “care givers” who rather than act strictly according to the ethics of their profession are wont to behave albeit unprofessionally. Their attitude alone, contributes greatly to maternal mortality.
Like every other health challenge in the country, there is a need for sustained efforts using all avenues to combat the scourge. Our public health institutions most especially at the local level where a large percentage of Nigerians are should be upgraded to life saving standards.
Like we have for MDG and HIV/AIDS like you rightly said, NYSC could be used as a vehicle to drive a ” Safe Pregnancy Campaign” all across the country. The use of NYSC will be cost effective and easily monitored too.
Governance is also important as it serves as the platform for policy formulation and implemenation. There is a need to step up our implementation programs, with emphasis on getting facilities up to standard and provided with necessary equipment and drugs as required.
In all, Eyinade has put into perspective the myth about Maternal Mortality…its not a poor man’s concern…..its everyone’s concern!
March 5th, 2010 at 4:03 am
I’m not sure if someone else could have done a better commentary than Eyinade Adedotun did. Mr. man, you are a genius of letters. I want to congratulate you. congrats man
Thanks a lot for elightening me the more on maternal mortality. you have added more to what i learnt during my stint with NYSC-MDG awareness club. All the best…….
March 5th, 2010 at 4:10 am
Uncle Dotun. My elder brother has told me many things about you. I want to say “more grease to your elbow” sir. Your write up has swept me off my feet completely. I’m highly impressed. You are excellent as i have been told Sir. I wish you all the best.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:20 am
Son… You have done well for your self. This is an eye opening essay and i wish the concerned quarters are able to take to your recommendations. I wish to tell you to keep it up and then take notice of Rotimi Olawale’s suggestion.These are also very important issues you should take notice of. You are indeed a shinning light that inspires. With people like you and my Son Gbenga in this generation, there is hope for the future.
ALL the Best.
Titus ASAOLU(MPH,PhD)
March 5th, 2010 at 4:31 am
You have raised a very important issue. I think the government of this country should read this article of yours so that they can learn one or two things from it.
Maternal Mortality has reached an alarming height in Nigeria and i think it’s better we act now before it is too late.
The most disturbing issue is that the people who are supposed to talk are keeping mum and acting as if there is no fire on the mountain. It is a source of concern and it’s very important that appropriate statistics of maternal mortality rate of the Northern states are thoroughly inspected because terrible things are happening in dark places in this country.
All the Best.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:59 am
It is true that the issue of marternal mortality is a social problem that little or no attention is being paid to. Unlike the issue of the dreaded HIV/AIDS.I remember some years back,i met a family friend very heavy with a child.Some days later,she died during child birth,this was really devastating. Poor woman she died with a dead baby in her womb.
The major cause of her death was that she went to a marternity home where she cuold not get proper health care during child birth becuse the price was relatively cheaper
If our mothers can be more elightened and the cots of child birth in good hospitals are regulated,it will go a long to reduce the number of women that die at child birth.
secondly,the issue of using nollywood movies to enligthen people will be of great help. Most importantly our government need to put all hands on deck, that is pay more attention to this issue. LETS WALK THE TALK.
Nice work,good reseach keep it up.
March 5th, 2010 at 5:23 am
I like this piece. Its educative and informative. I hope the right set of people get to read this and the government does something about it.
Its such a pity that Nigeria is a memeber of various organisations that tries to better the welfare of people but still when you take a look at what is happening in the county you feel like crying.
Dotun I hope you win
March 5th, 2010 at 5:51 am
It’s high time we walked the talk and not just talk the talk. Deliberate steps have to be taken to curb this maternal mortality.
March 5th, 2010 at 6:04 am
This write-up about maternal mortality reminds me of the discrimination faced by the womenfolk.so many women are deprived of their rights just because they are women. this is another area of concern and the solution starts from you, STAND FOR YOUR RIGHT.
March 5th, 2010 at 6:45 am
This is a wonderful piece…i find such passion very rare especially coming from a young man…it just goes to show the problem can always be tackled form the mind and the will to want to change.
Dotun thanks for this.
March 5th, 2010 at 7:22 am
Wow. An highly exhiliriating and informative piece if any. I must commend your deep research of this subject.
March 5th, 2010 at 11:37 am
Congrats Dotun. Well resaerched and touching. First few lines are captivating and makes you wonder what more you have to read.
Well done
March 5th, 2010 at 3:05 pm
This wonderfully crafted piece inspires a profound rethink on an issue consigned to the status of a blink in our sub-conscious.Frankly, maternal mortality was no more to me than a statistical incidence periodically stirred up by N.G.Os to populate their list of worthy causes. However, this masterful work of literature has shredded this perspective of ignorance.
- An eye-opener, it has brought to the fore, a subtle menace steadily permeating every level of our society.A mother lost in high class is as significant as one that gave up under the painful throes of childbirth on the farm.
Given that poverty as a predisposing factor, combined with unmotivated health personnel that give EMPATHY a wide berth, the prognosis does not bode well for our future, unless the Government can respond effectively to the solutions posited by this incisive writing.
Cultural factors and the rising cost of health care only serve to make an already grim situation gloomier.Yet, we still must believe, act and talk the answers to this unrelenting cankerworm.The least we can do is not to deny the baby of the smirking satisfaction of sucking the mothers breast,and then chuckling..
Dotun, this world-class expository is worthy of any level of competition.I really hope you do win.
March 6th, 2010 at 7:12 am
Whao!… Straight on the point!…. You just painted the right picture here, and I hope this doesnt just only win the prize and hide in some archives somewhere, I hope it drives change, I hope some people -and all of us- step into the trough because of this peice and save the lives of thousands of women who loss it just because they want to answer the call to procreate! Ride on bro!
March 6th, 2010 at 7:59 am
i like it. timely. and to d point. It cuts the chase and unveils the bitter truth to which we are accustomed.
March 19th, 2010 at 9:02 pm
Hello Adedotun, Great Work well research and educative and informative. This is a must read for people in authority.Those Politicians that are the corridor of power to wake up from their slumber to save female generation from this mess. well done, you are truly a colleague. well done.
Olu-johnson Ogundipe