Awba-Ofemili Development Union (ADU) Health Committee has called for greater vigilance against health-related misinformation, warning that myths and falsehoods about diseases like Buruli Ulcer (Elu-Ulee) could undermine community health development.
This call was made following the successful Awba-Ofemili Community Health Awareness Campaign 2025, themed “Buruli Ulcer (Elu-Ulee): Know the Signs, Stop the Spread,” held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Civic Centre, Awba-Ofemili.
Speaking at the event, Ogbuefi (Sir) Remmy Nweke, Chairman of the ADU Health Committee (AHC) and Convener of the Awba-Ofemili Health Volunteers Team (AHVT), emphasized that misinformation remains one of the biggest threats to public health progress.
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“When people rely on rumours or reject scientific advice, diseases spread faster, lives are lost, and development slows down. Our campaign reinforces that knowledge saves lives, not fear or myths,” he said.
The campaign, organized in collaboration with the Office of the President-General, Awba-Ofemili Development Union (ADU), the Nigerian Red Cross Society (Anambra State Branch), and the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ASPHCDA), featured health talks, demonstrations, and free medical checks for residents. Participants were also educated on the causes, symptoms, and prevention of Buruli Ulcer, a neglected tropical disease that affects the skin and soft tissues.
The awareness programme further witnessed the donation of first aid boxes to community institutions and the establishment of Red Cross chapters in local schools, including Community Secondary School, Awba-Ofemili, a move aimed at promoting a culture of health emergency preparedness among the youth.
According to Nweke, the day’s success demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration and trust between health professionals, community leaders, and residents. He commended the ADU leadership, partners, and volunteers for “turning a grassroots idea into a model for community health empowerment.”
He further cautioned that misinformation, whether from social media, traditional misconceptions, or word of mouth, could easily reverse gains made in public health.
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“We must replace rumours with verified knowledge. Every household must become a source of truth, not fear. This is how we can build a healthier and more resilient Awba-Ofemili,” he stressed.
The event drew participation from medical experts, Red Cross educators, community leaders, teachers, and students, all of whom pledged to carry the campaign message — “Know the Signs, Stop the Spread” into their respective quarters.
The Awba-Ofemili Health Committee (AHC) reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining community health education through partnerships, outreach, and follow-up programmes.
