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Nigeria Is there a cure for HIV/AIDS? |
AIDS
Controversy rages in Nigeria’s medical world over claims that a cure for HIV/AIDS has been found
The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) is the umbrella body of all science-based professionals in the country, while the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) controls all medical doctors. But for some time now the NMA has been locked in controversy with one of its members, Dr. Jeremiah Abalaka, who claims to have found a cure for HIV/AIDS. While the NMA has been dragging its feet over the issue, the NAS came out recently with a startling revelation that the Abalaka drug is capable of causing hepatitis. Ironically, the Federal Ministry of Science has not helped matters as it has refused to conduct a laboratory test for the drug.
It is an irony of fate that at a time when the world of science is battling to find a cure for HIV/AIDS, we are subjecting our own people to public ridicule. The question is: Must the cure for the disease emanate from Europe and the Americans for it to be useful? Is the Ministry of Health not capable of caring for the Nigerian people’s health needs? If Dr. Abalaka says he has found a cure for the disease, is it not in the interest of the nation to conduct a thorough research with a view to confirming the efficacy of the drug?
Nigeria, it must be said, is blessed with abundant local herbs that can be used to cure many ailments. It’s by using herbs that Abalaka claims to have found a cure for HIV/AIDS. One would expect the Federal Government to engage in a series of laboratory tests and analysis of his drug. The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NMIPRD) headed by Dr. Charles Wambebe, was set up for just such a purpose. But, unfortunately, this has not been done. Instead, Dr. Abalaka’s claim has been a subject of public ridicule.
Time is fast running out
At a time like this when everyone is concerned about the spread of HIV/AIDS, some people think the government should encourage research into finding a cure for the disease. One wonders whose interests the Minister of Health, Dr. Tim Menakaya, is protecting, says one lawyer. It’s interesting to note that there are lots of people who don’t want a cure for AIDS to be found. It has been rumoured that condom manufacturers are behind the opposition posed by Abalaka’s drug.
President Olusegun Obasanjo’s long silence over the controversy is seen as very disturbing. However, one political analyst is of the opinion that Dr. Abalaka should be treated as a hero and not a villain. He deserves every support he can get. Posterity will not forgive the NAS, the NMA and government agencies if the innovative doctor’s efforts are frustrated, while people continue to die.
Indeed, the controversy has prompted the National Assembly to swing into action by inaugurating a committee to look into the various claims for cures for HIV/AIDS. Perhaps there is a way forward, after all.
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