The following diseases conditions are believed to be due to attacks from human enemies by everyone in Akwa Ibom. Consequently, sufferers are barred from seeking orthodox treatment.
1. Herpes Zoster (Nkwa iyò)
This is a self-limiting viral infection. It is very common among with low immunity. It affects the tiny nerves of the skin on one side of the body.
The myth is that if the skin eruptions spread round and join, the sufferer will drop death! Traditional healers and soothsayers normally charge between 250 – 500k, apart from traditional item, to treat “Nkwa iyó”.
2. Erysipelas/Cellulitis of the leg (Ubóng Ukod).
This is an acute fast spreading bacterial infection, characterized by leg swelling, sever pain and hotness. Due to the usual late or no antibacterial and anti inflammation intervention, the soft tissue often swell and block blood flow to the leg, resulting in necrosis.
3. Cerebrospinal meningitis (Okon ókpósóng itóng)
Severe inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, caused infection by bacteria, virus, fungus or parasites. It is characterized by stiffness of the neck. It is very fatal because sufferers often avoid do not go near antibiotics or any orthodox drug.
4. Glaucoma (Ekpo ntib enyen)
Fast developing blindness due to some blockade in the flow of the fluid that lubricate the eyes. It is usually attributed to loading of the eye with sand by an evil spirit
5. Stroke (Akpa Ubeng)
This is weakness or total paralysis of one side of the limbs and face, due to a problem on the side of the brain that controls that side of the body. It is mostly caused by uncontrolled hypertension. There are other causes.
6. Sudden collapse (Ekpo amia)
Sudden collapse can be caused by severe malaria (especially in children), low blood sugar, Severe hypertension, Drug abuse, etc. it is usually attribute to a strike by an evil spirit detailed by an enemy.
To be continued….
