I Met Him in Church… But I Didn't Know the Devil Also Wore Suits."

I thought the safest place to meet a good man was the house of God.
I thought wrong.

When I met Samuel, I was 25 and deeply broken.

I had just come out of a toxic relationship — the kind that leaves you doubting your own worth, your own beauty, your own intelligence.

I needed healing.
I needed God.

So when Samuel found me crying quietly after service one evening, and offered me his handkerchief, I thought:

> "Maybe this is how God gives second chances."

He was everything a "church man" should be.

Well-dressed.

Well-spoken.

Bible study leader.

Quoting scriptures like breathing air.

He never missed midweek service.
He always led prayer sessions with fire.
People respected him.
Pastor adored him.

And somehow... he adored me.

He courted me “the godly way.”

No kissing.
No touching.
No secret sleepovers.

Just prayers, fasting, long conversations about our future.

He would say:

> "Let’s make heaven together, baby."

I believed him.

I introduced him to my family.

He knelt down before my parents and said:

> "I will honor her. I will cherish her. I will protect her in Christ."

My father cried that day.

My mother started sewing Aso-Ebi for a wedding that hadn’t even been proposed yet.

Everyone said I was lucky.

That I had found a rare gem.

Three months to our introduction, things started changing.

Little things.

He started picking on my dressing.

> "That skirt is too tight. Godly women are modest."

He started controlling who I could talk to.

> "Your best friend is too worldly. She’s a distraction."

He started monitoring my social media.

> "Why are men liking your posts? Delete it."

I thought it was love.
I thought it was protection.

I didn’t know it was the first signs of a cage.

Then came the financial requests.

First, it was ₦20,000 to “sow a seed” into a new church project.

Then ₦50,000 because his car broke down on the way to evangelism.

Then ₦100,000 because his younger brother needed urgent school fees — "and as his future wife," he said, "our burdens are shared."

I drained my savings without blinking.

Because isn't that what Proverbs 31 women do?
Support their men in times of need?

Besides, he always said:

> "God will bless you double."

I was sowing into my future, I thought.

I was watering the garden of marriage, I thought.

One night, two weeks to our traditional wedding, I visited him unannounced.

I just wanted to surprise him.

Bring him some food.
Maybe wash his clothes.
Be a good fiancée.

The door was locked.
I knocked.

He came out half-naked.

Another woman was inside.
Wearing my favorite Ankara wrapper.

Cooking in his kitchen.

She looked me dead in the eyes and said:

> "Who are you?"

I couldn’t speak.
My tongue glued itself to my grief.

Samuel pulled me outside roughly and whispered:

> "Don't embarrass me. She's my real fiancée. You were just... spiritual support."

Just.
Spiritual.
Support.

Six months of prayers.
Six months of fasting.
Six months of giving.

For what?

For another woman to wear my wrapper?
For another woman to sleep in the bed I helped pay rent for?

He blocked me the next day.

Changed churches.

Moved on.

I found out later he had three other women from three other churches he was "courting" at the same time.

Different rings.
Different promises.
Same lies.

I thought the pain would kill me.

I thought my chest would split open from heartbreak.

I questioned God:

> "Was I not faithful enough?
Was I not prayerful enough?
Was I not good enough?"

But the more I wept, the clearer it became:

It wasn't about me.
It was about him.

Some men use the name of God as camouflage.
They speak in tongues, but their hearts speak in manipulation.
They sing worship songs, but their souls are tuned to destruction.

Today, I am healing.

Slowly.

Learning that God is good, even when people are wicked.

Learning that real love doesn't control, it cherishes.
Real love doesn't use, it protects.
Real love doesn’t need a stage and a microphone — it’s humble, it’s patient, it’s kind.

Life Lesson:

Don’t confuse spirituality with character.

Don’t let your love for God blind you to red flags waving like banners.

And never, ever surrender your mind just because someone carries a Bible louder than you.

Love should feel like peace — not war.
Not confusion.
Not fear.

Today, I still believe in love.
I still believe in God.

But now, I know better:

> Even the devil can wear suits.
Even the devil can preach sermons.

Test spirits.
Test hearts.
Test character.

Before you hand over your heart.

---

#HealingIsAMiracle #ChurchGirlDiaries #LoveAndLessons #RealLifeStories #GuardYourHeart

Part 1:

As he sat down, waiting for his lawyers and his children’s lawyer to hear his final testament, Mr. HackEarth reflected on all his life-long escapades. Despite the billions he had accrued, they mattered little to him now. He was too old and feeble to enjoy any of it. And now, here he was, about to divide his money to his ungrateful children and ex-wives.

The thought of how his children had gone wayward and disappointing hurts him more. His children were greedy and extravagant. They hold no love for Old Hackman except for his money. He knows it too well and He despised all of them, and he was ready to punish them one last time before setting his plans in motion.

The lawyers from both parties were seated in Mr. HackEarth’s exquisite and luxurious office on the 40th floor of his favorite glass skyscraper. Camcorders were set up to document the entire proceeding.

Mr. Date, HackEarth’s personal secretary of over 30 years, gently wheeled him toward where the lawyers were seated.

Papers shifted from one lawyer to another. Subtle whispers filled the room, and carefully restrained laughter warmly expressed. His children and ex-wives watched from various conference rooms, leaping with joy as they saw their father wheeled in—anticipating the final testament that would make them rich.

The psychiatrists arrived to examine Mr. HackEarth’s testamentary capacity, verifying whether he was fit to sign a will that will dispose of his assets upon his death. Everything checked out with the old man. His children’s lawyers were satisfied. Greedy lawyers waiting to charge big fee from their clients.

Mr. Stafford brought in a huge stack of documents and laid them carefully on the table. The children, slouched in their chairs, watched keenly, their spirits high as they observed everything being telecasted live to them.

Mr. HackEarth pulled a pen from his breast pocket and began scribbling something before signing it. He handed the document to Mr. Stafford, then ordered everyone to leave the room—except for his secretary and his lawyers, Mr. Stafford and his associate, Mr. Weller. The live telecast ended abruptly.

He then produced a single sheet of paper, on which was boldly written:

"I, John HackEarth, Having been determined that I am of sound mind to declare my will, I hereby revoke all wills and codicils executed by me and dispose of my estate as follows. To my children, I leave a sum of money sufficient only to pay off their existing debts—with no provision for any new debts incurred after today. Should any of my children attempt to contest this will, they shall thereby forfeit any gift herein. To my ex-wives, I leave nothing, as they were adequately provided for during our divorces.

I hereby bequeath the remainder of my estate to my daughter, Lynne, born to Joycelin Camel. I appoint my lawyer, James Stafford as executor of this will and grant him broad discretion in its administration ."

He signed it, sealed it in an envelope, and handed it to Stafford.

Then, with all his might, Mr. HackEarth leaped from his wheelchair and staggered toward the windows. Everyone in the room was stunned to see Old Hackman on his feet for the first time in three years. They froze, unsure how to react to his sudden movement. Instinctively, Mr. Date lunged forward to stop him—but before he could reach him, Old Hackman slid open the window and hurled himself forward.

The lawyers rushed to the window just in time to see Mr. HackEarth’s body plummet to the ground below. He was dead.


Part 2: Coming soon.
Summarized by: Reindolf J. Botchway

Disclaimer: This is my personal summary of an excerpt from The Testament
by John Grisham—a story I found so gripping, I had to share! To avoid spoilers and add my own flair, I tweaked some details, changed character names, and sprinkled in a twist or two based on my interpretation. The core plot belongs to the brilliant John Grisham, so credit where it’s due!

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.

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