Jason Statham is one of the best action heroes around these days.

But before he ever appeared in a movie, he had a life that could easily match any of the tough characters he's played on screen.

Let's take a closer look at his life story:

MBOMUZO IN OKWUOHIA AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITY,
OBOWO L.G.A., IMO STATE, NIGERIA.
Okwuohia is a Community in Obowo
L.G.A., of Imo state, Nigeria, that has enviable rich historical background and deep cultural heritage. Okwuohia is the only community in Obowo and the old ETITI District that has four markets covering the four market days in Igbo calendar, namely: Eke, Orie, Afor and Nkwo. All these have distinct locations and hold accordingly.
The community prides herself with many cultural festivals which include Mbomuzo, Ntumaka, Nrim-ji (Iri ji) among others. But the one that attracts people in their numbers to the community is, "MBOMUZO", a-k-a "NKUISI-MKPURU-UKWA".
MBOMUZO simply means, "clearing of the roads ", otherwise known as environmental cleansing, especially with regard to roads leading to traditional centres and matket places. It is intended to make the roads passable again in order to give proper access to the markets and homes of citizens.
In Okwuohia, all roads are cleared very thoroughly starting from individual homes to the Eke-Okwuohia, Orie-Okwuohia, Afor-Okwuohia and Nkwo-Okwuohia market squares. Also, roads leading to major and significant rivers are cleared. For instance, the Onu-iyi-lolo-nwanyi (Onu-ngele) stream at Umuduru Mgbakam is usually kept cleared for the "AHIA-NGANGA" ceremony by the women of Okwuohia during the same period. It has to be noted that all the road clearing and cleansing must be completed on or before the NKWO market day preceding the EKE market day of the ceremony.
NKUISI-MKPURU-UKWA: As said earlier in this write-up, MBOMUZO Okwuohia is also referred to as NKUISI-MKPURU-UKWA. Why?
Ours, is an agrarian community. In those good old days, our people cultivated yams, coco-yams, maize, cassava and mkpokoro in large scales. Farming was done more at locations far away from homes. Due to this, farmers constructed make-shift structures there in the bush/farms, where they rested and had their meals during the toils of the day. Most times, people returned to their homes very late in the evening. Major foods eaten in the farms those days were bread-fruits (Ukwa), palm kernels, yams and coco-yams. The bread-fruits were eaten whole without removing the the shells or the outer covers. Farming took place between the months of January and May, during which period farmers fed on any available food items. When such farmers returned to their homes from their farms in the month of May, they settled down to enjoy more pleasant and well prepared food. They would no longer eat the bread-fruits with their shells. Also, they cleaned their environments that had been left bushy during the period of intensive farming activities in the farms. From their homes, clearing and cleansing progress to the roads that lead to other homes and traditional centres. At this time, people begin to exchange visits with relatives and friends both far and near to show that they have returned home after the farming period in the bush. Such visits are usually reciprocated. During such visits, entertainments are unlimited based on the dispositions of the parties involved. In Okwuohia, after the entertainment at home, people gather at the designated market square to demonstrate it the more. The venue is usually at the ORIE OKWUOHIA, where the EKWIRIKWE music music is played and danced in an organized manner.
EKWIRIKWE MUSIC AND ORDER OF DANCING:
After the presentation and blessing of kola-nuts by the traditional ruler of Okwuohia, who declares the ceremony open after his speech and brief demonstration of the dance, the ceremony begins. Ofeiyi people, who are the custodians of the EKWIRIKWE do a brief demonstration dance. Thereafter, the traditional order of seniority of the three sections of Okwuohia is strictly observed thus: MGBAKAM, OFEIYI and AMARAMOHIA. Finally, a general dance which is usually longer and more thrilling comes up and marks the end of the ceremony.
The EKWIRIKWE music delivers messages which present Okwuohia as place with people of remarkable mutual respect, prowess and noted for wrestling. EKWIRIKWE music is used to caution Okwuohia people not to eat the bread-fruits with the shells again after the Mbomuzo. Hence, "ONYE ATALA UKWA NA MKPEKELE" and "NKUISI-MKPURU-UKWA". This is demonstrated by hitting one's back-side to symbolically discharge the ones eaten previously. Before the EKWIRIKWE dance arena is approached, people sing various songs and dance along the road according to Age Grades, socicultural groups and sections.
MBOMUZO AND THE PRONOUNCEMENT OF DATE.
Only the Eze of Okwuohia, in consultation with you Traditional Council has the powers to announce the date for MBOMUZO every year. Above all, it is a known fact that Okwuohia community is the first among all the communities in Obowo and even the old ETITI District to perform Mbomuzo every year, thus determining the cultural calendar for other communities that perform the same and or related festivals.
Mbomuzo holds in Okwuohia on the second EKE-Okwuohia market day in the month of June every year. Visitors, friends, in-laws and well -wishers of the community visit the community to enjoy the characteristic hospitality and conviviality associated with the ceremony. Entertainment items are unlimited especially according to the preparedness of the individual families and persons during the period. Such entertainment items include and not limited to polished bread-fruit meals, maize pudding, cassava foo-foo, oil-bean pudding and different kinds of drinks.
PROBLEMS:
The festival has suffered from various problems which include but not limited to wrong perceptions, misrepresentation, misconception, ignorance, ineptitude, iconoclasm and apathy. Many, especially the less informed and the neo-religious groups strongly hold to the perception that that the festival is fetish and wasteful (especially those who are not willing to spend their resources to host guests).
ADVANTAGES:
The period leads to keeping the surroundings clean, re-union of families, friends, in-laws and well -wishers, tourist attraction and advancing our cultural heritage including ensuring the acquisition and development of the EKWIRIKWE playing and dancing skills.
In the good old days, women who earnestly took part in the road and market clearing and cleansing and later took part in the AHIA-NGANGA activities after bathing on serious intents at the Onu-Lolo-nwanyi (Onu-Ngele) stream, would appear at Mbomuzo the following year either pregnant or as nursing mothers if they either prayed for or desired such thereby.
MODIFICATIONS SO FAR:
Since culture is dynamic, efforts have been made by the leadership of Okwuohia community, over time, to modify certain aspects of the festival and programmes there-of in order to exponge some questionable and undesirable aspects of it. For instance, the timing and declaration of the date of the festival are now done by the Traditional ruler of Okwuohia in synergy with the Traditional Council. Also, no shrine or deity is either worshipped or honoured before, during and even after the festival. Most times, the traditional rulership open the festival with Christian thanks-giving worship at an agreed Christian church here in Okwuohia.
CONCLUSION:
In line with the realities of the present moments, efforts should be made to allow for acceptable modifications while there should be insistence on protecting and upholding the soul, spirit and purports of the cultural heritage of our dear Okwuohia community especially as regards affects MBOMUZO.
Written by:
Chief Emma C. Anyanwu, (DIKEMBA),
1st Traditional Prime Minister and Currently the Chairman of Okwuohia Traditional Council,
Being a lecture presented by me at the 2019 edition of MBOMUZO festival, at EKE-OKWUOHIA Market Square.

HEALTH TALK FOR TODAY – part 2

Stages of Diabetes
1. Prediabetes: Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.
2. Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
3. Type 2 Diabetes: A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion.
4. Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy, usually in the second or third trimester.

Managing Diabetes
Lifestyle Changes
1. Healthy Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
2. Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
3. Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to improve insulin sensitivity.
4. Stress Management: Engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Medication and Monitoring
1. Medications: Adhere to prescribed medications, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin therapy.
2. Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly check blood sugar levels to adjust diet, exercise, or medication.
3. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor diabetes progression and adjust treatment plans.

Complications Prevention
1. Foot Care: Regularly inspect and care for your feet to prevent ulcers and infections.
2. Eye Care: Schedule regular eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy.
3. Kidney Care: Monitor kidney function and manage blood pressure to prevent kidney damage.

Additional Tips
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
2. Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about diabetes management and stay up-to-date with the latest research and treatment options.

Weakness of attitude becomes weakness of character

Marriage doesn't begin with Ring but with your mindset. Your traits are what will prove to people that this person is married before the ring shows as a sign.

If you are not a wife, a man won't see you, it's stated that he who finds a wife, your character as a single person, must be the character of a wife for a man to find you.

Stop behaving anyhow, people are watching you! Act the way you want to be addressed.
#followers #highlight

Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Life Partner

DESPERATION– Some people rush into marriage without learning enough about it.

They think, “I’ll figure it out along the way,” but this mindset leads to regret.

The right knowledge helps you prepare, notice warning signs early, and make better choices.

TRYING TO PROVE A POINT– Some get married just to show others they can. They don’t want people saying, “With all your beauty and money, you’re still single?”

But in the end, when problems come, they realize no one really cared that much and they have to face the consequences of their choices and decisions all alone

PEER PRESSURE – Seeing friends get married makes some feel left out.

So, they rush to pick anyone just to fit in, without thinking long-term.

FEAR OF TIME PASSING – Some believe they are getting too old and must marry quickly, even if the person doesn’t match their values and purpose in life.

They forget that everyone’s journey(time) is different, and rushing can lead to regret.

MARRYING FOR MONEY OR STATUS– Some choose a partner just for wealth or social position, ignoring their bad character.

Later, they realize that money is useless when there is no peace and they have no say in the marriage.

BLINDLY FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS– Some marry people recommended by parents, pastors, or others without checking if they are truly compatible.

But what others see as “good” may not be right for you. Good intentions doesn’t equate compatibility.

Marriage is a lifelong journey. Don't rush into it for the wrong reasons.

Take your time, learn, and choose wisely.

*7 Destinies Destr0yers to Avoid*

As a young man, it's essential to be aware of the pitfalls that can hinder your success. Here are seven key areas to focus on:

1. *Gambling*: Avoid gambling at all costs. The addiction can wreck lives and destroy destinies. Stay away from anything that might lead to gambling.

2. *Womanizing*: Fornication is costly and can lead to financial ruin. Focus on building meaningful relationships rather than chasing fleeting pleasures.

3. *Alcoholism*: Drink responsibly and maintain self-control. Excessive drinking can lead to financial waste and neglect of responsibilities.

4. *Drugs and Smoking*: Never succumb to drug addiction or smoking. These habits can lead to mental instability, health issues, and financial ruin.

5. *Laziness*: Hard work and diligence are essential for success. Avoid procrastination and stay active.

6. *Indiscipline*: Live with discipline and purpose. Establish routines and stick to them, prioritizing attitudes and character that promote positive change.

7. *Time Mismanagement*: Value your time and invest it wisely. Prioritize activities that add value to your life and watch your life change for the better.

By avoiding these destinies destroyers, you'll be well on your way to achieving your goals and living a purposeful life.

Thanks for reading.

HEALTH TALK FOR TODAY (DIABETES) – part 1 - PLEASE READ AND COMMENT

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. It occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or effectively use the insulin it produces.

What is Insulin?
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. It helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream to use for energy.

Here are the main types of diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes
- An autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
- Typically develops in childhood or adolescence.
- Requires insulin therapy to manage blood sugar levels.

2. Type 2 Diabetes
- A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion.
- Often associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet.
- Can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication.

3. Gestational Diabetes
- Develops during pregnancy, usually in the second or third trimester.
- Typically goes away after pregnancy, but women with gestational diabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

4. LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults)
- A form of type 1 diabetes that develops in adults.
- Often mistaken for type 2 diabetes, but requires insulin therapy.

5. MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young)
- A rare form of diabetes caused by genetic mutations.
- Typically develops in young adulthood.

6. Secondary Diabetes
- Develops as a result of another medical condition or treatment, such as pancreatitis, pancreatic surgery, or certain medications.

Each type of diabetes has its own unique characteristics and management strategies.

Who you marry shapes your future more than when you marry. The right partner brings peace, purpose, and support, making every season of life meaningful.

Rushing into marriage for the sake of timing can lead to regrets, but choosing wisely, regardless of age, builds a foundation for lasting joy. It’s not about the clock; it’s about the character.

- Dakore Akande

Orthopaedic Doctor Warns 60-100 year-olds*
The elderly are prone to fractures because their bone density is getting smaller and smaller, so the risk of fractures will definitely increase.

Therefore, the most important measure for the elderly to prevent fractures is to do everything possible to prevent accidental injuries.
How to reduce accidental injuries?

There are the Seven Characters of the so-called secret that I summed up, which is:
“Be careful, be Careful, be Careful again"
Specific measures include:

1.Never stand on a Chair or Stool to get something, even a low Stool.

2.Try not to go out on rainy days.

3.Take Special Care when bathing or using the toilet, to prevent Slipping.

4.The most important, especially for women - don't wear underwear in bathroom, taking support of wall or other things.The commonest cause of slipping and fracture of hip joint. After bath, come back to your Changing room. Sit comfortably on either a Chair or on your bed and then put on underwear.

5.While going to the toilet, ensure that bathroom floor is dry and not slippery.. Use only commode.. and at the same time, fix a hand rest to hold on to while getting up from the commode seat. same is true while taking a bath sitting on bath Stool.

6.Be sure to clean up the clutter on the floor of the house before going to bed and take double care when floor is wet.

7.When getting up in the middle of the night, sit on the bed for 3-4 minutes before standing up; be sure to turn on the light first and then get up.

8.At least in the night or even during day time [if feasible], please, please do not close toilet door from inside. If possible, have an alarm bell fitted in the toilet, and press it to summon help from family members etc in case of any emergency..

9.Seniors must sit on a Chair or a bed to wear pants etc.

10.In the event of a fall, you must stretch out your hands to get support from the ground. It is better to fracture the forearm and wrist than to fracture the femoral neck at the hip joint.

11.I strongly advocate exercise, at least walk, to the extent possible for you

12.Especially for women. be very, very serious to keep your weight in permissible limits. Diet Control is the most important key. Eating leftovers, common behaviour of women... just get away from it. feed leftovers to those who need it, keeping your weight in Control is absolutely in your head and your mind, always better to stop eating with stomach half full, rather than eat till you have a satiety for having full stomach.

Regarding increasing bone mass, I also advocate Dietary Supplements [Dairy products, Soy products and food, especially Bananas which are high in Calcium]

The other is to do outdoor activities properly, because Sun exposure [under UV light] converts the Cholesterol in the Skin into vitamin D.

It is beneficial to promote intestinal absorption of Calcium and Osteoblast activity has the effect of delaying Osteoporosis.

Pay Special attention to the non-Slip floor of the bathroom.
When going up the Stairs, use the handrails and don't fall. Everyone, take Care.
Therefore, the elderly must pay attention to anti-Skid and anti-Fall measures.
One fall will cost ten years of life. Because all the Bones and Muscles are destroyed. So, be Careful.

Avoid Standing for too long.

VISION

INTRODUCTION

Vision is the revelation of God’s purpose and plan for a person, a people, a generation, or even an entire nation. It is not ambition. It is not wishful thinking. It is not mere goal-setting. Vision is divine direction birthed by divine encounter. According to Habakkuk 2:2-3 (NKJV): “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” This reveals a key truth: NO TRUE VISION SPEAKS AT THE BEGINNING; IT ONLY SPEAKS AT THE END.

WHAT IS VISION?

Vision is the spiritual insight into God’s intended outcome for a life. It is not self-initiated but God-initiated. It is the mental and spiritual picture of your future that propels you with energy, courage, and resilience. Vision is what gives life direction, focus, and purpose. Without it, people live by reaction instead of intention. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

True vision is born out of divine fellowship. It is not created in the boardroom but received in the secret place. Vision is not what you want to do for God, but what God wants to do through you. It is the blueprint of heaven deposited in your spirit, commanding your alignment and action.

KEY FACTS ABOUT VISION

1. TRUE VISION SPEAKS AT THE END, NOT AT THE BEGINNING

When vision first arrives, it often looks ordinary, confusing, or even unrealistic. It rarely comes with applause or clarity. In fact, it often invites criticism, mockery, and rejection. Just like Joseph’s dreams, vision is usually ridiculed before it is respected. In the beginning, it may appear dormant or unachievable. But in the end, it speaks loudly and clearly. Vision is validated by manifestation, not excitement.

2. VISION REQUIRES PROCESSING

Before vision speaks, it processes. The one who receives vision must be processed to match the weight of what God has revealed. Moses had the vision to deliver Israel, but spent 40 years in the wilderness being prepared. Paul encountered Jesus and then spent years in Arabia being equipped. God will never place a heavy vision on an unprocessed vessel. Between revelation and manifestation is preparation.

3. VISION THRIVES ON CHARACTER, NOT JUST CHARISMA

It is not enough to carry power gifts like prophecy, tongues, healing, or discernment. These are important but not sufficient for the fulfillment of vision. The gifts may attract attention, but it is the fruit of the Spirit that sustains destiny. According to Galatians 5:22-23, the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the attributes that preserve the vessel and stabilize the journey.

Many have received genuine visions from God but failed in character and collapsed in the process. Patience and long-suffering are especially critical because vision is a marathon, not a sprint. Without endurance, discouragement will abort destiny.

4. VISION REQUIRES TIME AND SEASONAL DISCERNMENT

Vision is time-sensitive. No matter how accurate a vision is, if you try to manifest it outside of divine timing, it will fail. The power of vision lies in alignment with God’s schedule. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Misjudging seasons leads to premature exposure and failure.

Vision must be walked out step by step, stage by stage. Just as a baby must crawl before walking, vision must mature before manifestation. Each season comes with its test. There is a season of silence, of rejection, of formation, and of visibility. You must discern them all.

5. VISION ATTRACTS ADVERSITY

Every true vision will face opposition. In fact, opposition is one of the strongest validations that your vision is divine. Satan will not fight what is not a threat. Nehemiah’s vision to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem was opposed from every side. Jesus' mission was challenged from infancy to the cross. If your vision is truly of God, expect resistance—but also expect divine backing.

Opposition is not a sign of failure but a test of commitment. Many faint in the day of adversity because their strength is small. Visionaries must be battle-tested, able to withstand storms, delays, betrayals, and discouragement.

6. VISION REQUIRES DISCIPLINE AND FOCUS

Distraction is one of the deadliest enemies of vision. Many start strong but lose focus. Like Peter walking on water, they allow the winds of life to shift their eyes from the Master to the mess. Vision demands saying no to many good things to stay with the God-thing.

It also requires the discipline of time, resources, and relationships. Not every opportunity is a divine instruction. You must guard your heart, your circle, and your energy. Vision flourishes in environments of purity and clarity.

7. VISION REQUIRES COURAGE AND RESILIENCE

Vision will often demand that you walk alone. The early stages of vision may require loneliness, rejection, and misunderstanding. Noah built an ark with no rain in sight. Abraham walked to an unknown land. These men were sustained by vision, not applause.

If you cannot endure the loneliness of vision, you will never enjoy the reward of vision. You must believe what God told you even when no one else sees it. Hebrews 10:36 says, “You have need of patience, that, after you have done the will of God, you might receive the promise.”

8. VISION SEEKS TRANSFORMATION, NOT JUST ATTRACTION

A true vision will not just aim to make you popular or successful; it will aim to make others better, to improve society, and to advance God’s kingdom. Vision is bigger than self. It is redemptive. It serves others. It adds value. If your vision doesn’t stretch beyond you, it is ambition, not vision.

STAGES OF A VISION

1. REVELATION – God reveals His purpose.

2. INSTRUCTION – Specific steps are given.

3. SEPARATION – You are separated from what limits you.

4. PREPARATION – You are trained and refined.

5. OPPOSITION – You are tested and resisted.

6. MANIFESTATION – Vision begins to produce fruit.

7. MULTIPLICATION – Vision spreads and multiplies in others.

QUALITIES OF A VISIONARY

Sensitive to divine instructions

Emotionally stable and spiritually rooted

Bold in the face of opposition

Willing to endure delays and rejections

Able to discern seasons and transitions

Passionate about impact, not applause

Willing to submit to process and authority

Consistent in faith, regardless of results

CONCLUSION

Vision is not a one-time encounter—it is a lifelong journey. It is God's plan being worked out through your life in stages. Vision is fragile in the beginning but becomes powerful at the end. The end speaks, not the beginning. It is not how it looks now, but how it will be when God is done.

Don’t abort your vision because of delay. Don’t discard it because of opposition. Don’t disobey because of pressure. What God has shown you will come to pass—if you stay faithful.

Ecclesiastes 7:8 (NIV) says, “The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.” Vision is not about speed, but about staying in sync with God. Those who wait on the Lord will not be ashamed. The vision will speak—at the end.

1. A leader leads from the front not from the back
2. A leader does first before he asks his followers to do not the other way round
3. A leader listens more than he speaks
4. A leader takes responsibility, not excuses
5. A leader corrects in private and praises in public
6. A leader stands strong during chaos, not just in comfort
7. A leader motivates by example, not by pressure
8. A leader protects the weak, not exploit them
9. A leader shows vision, not confusion
10. A leader works with the team, not above the team
11. A leader creates more leaders, not more followers
12. A leader stays calm even when others panic
13. A leader stays focused on the goal, not distracted by noise
14. A leader serves before he commands
15. A leader accepts blame and shares the credit
16. A leader builds trust, not fear
17. A leader values growth over perfection
18. A leader solves problems, not spread blame
19. A leader remains humble no matter how high he climbs
20. A leader respects others regardless of their position
21. A leader keeps learning, even while leading
22. A leader inspires with actions, not just words

23. A leader speaks truth, not what’s convenient
24. A leader admits mistakes, not cover them
25. A leader remains consistent, not double-faced
26. A leader earns loyalty, not demand it
27. A leader walks with integrity, not hidden agendas
28. A leader stays visible when it's tough, not hide
29. A leader builds bridges, not walls
30. A leader lifts others up, not tramples on them

*Encouragement Paragraph:*
True leadership is not about titles or positions — it’s about action, impact, and character. Whether you lead a team, a family, a community, or just yourself, be the kind of leader who leads by example. People follow what they see, not what they hear. So rise, lead with love, strength, and integrity. The world needs more of such leadership.