Professor of political economy and founder of Centre for Values and Leadership, Patrick Utomi, on Friday, gave an insight into his battle with cancer and how it has affected his life.
He revealed via a series of tweets on Friday, how he was diagnosed with cancer in 2022, noting that many men his age are also facing similar challenges.
According to Prof. Utomi, he tested positive for prostate cancer after carrying out a biopsy, adding that he began taking treatment at a cancer centre in Ikeja and Victoria Island, both in Lagos State, during the 2023 election campaigns.
He tweeted, “I am moved this dawn of light to confront an epidemic under the carpet with great harm to men. Prostate cancer is bringing death and misery to many men. Had they been forewarned the misery, containment and even chances of cure could be much enhanced, as women have with breast cancer.
“I agreed with the Gambian Real Estate Entrepreneur Taf Njie while I battled the disease that we should do more to create awareness. Nearly 30 years ago, I went to Ibadan to speak and lend a hand to present Ondo State First Lady, Betty Akeredolu as she raised the breast cancer banner.
“When a biopsy showed I was positive last year, I began treatment with a cancer Centre with a branch in Ikeja and VI. I sometimes come from election campaigns to the Ikeja Centre near the Airport. The doctors would try to smuggle me out from the back. The well-known shielded?”
“Once elections were over, my young nephews and cousins, doctors in Europe and the US, joined forces with the Lakeshore people and decided they wanted me in their direct care. That’s how come it seemed I went quiet cause they controlled my phones to reduce stress.
“Did not see why it was taboo to say you were in a battle with cancer. The more I talked about it, the more I found many of my age in similar circumstances. It almost seems like an epidemic for Nigerian men over 60. Not talking makes them lose the benefit of early detection,” he tweeted.
Recall that earlier this year, veteran singer and activist, Charles Oputa, aka Charly Boy, recounted his ordeal with the same ailment.
In an interview with PUNCH Saturday Beats, he said being open about the issue helped him, adding, “I do not hide myself. If something is bothering me, I will shout, so that everyone can hear me. A problem shared is half solved.
“It was as a result of speaking with people who had experienced it that I figured that I had to do something about it. The problem actually started three years ago. I sought medical help and I met a Nigerian doctor in London, United Kingdom, who specialises in treating the ailment. When he told me that he would come to Nigeria, I had to do the surgery here. I thank God it was successful. I am still recovering though.”
The son of a late Supreme Court Justice, Chukwudifu Oputa, said he was encouraged by the love he got from his family and friends.
“I learnt that family and friends are vital in everybody’s lives. My children are not kids anymore and they are now like my friends. I know I am loved, but it was a time I felt special. For everyone who was there for me, may God bless them. Nigeria has dealt with me. However, my fallback has always been my family and friends. Family is my resting place. That is why I am an expert in preserving myself. I do not overwork myself.
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