Stigmatization has been described as a killer phenomenon; worst than HIV/AIDs itself since it has affected disclosure, status declaration, status assessment and the general uptake of HIV services in the institutions. It leads to discrimination, marginalization and eventual violation of the fundamental rights of positive patients, especially when their rights to liberty and association become a story by the populace.
Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tamunoiyoriari Sampson Parker made the revelation during the official premiere of a movie entitle, ‘STIGMA’ to commemorate the 2013 world AIDS day in Rivers.
According to Dr. Parker, the State Ministry of Health in furtherance to the ideals of the Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi’s administration on partnership and efficiency in health service delivery has produced the movie titled ‘STIGMA’ as a paradigm collaboration between Nollywood and the health industry to assist sensitize, re-oriented, educate and model societal attitude and behaviour towards achieving de-stigmatization.
“Stigmatization itself is worst than the dreaded virus as absence of self confidence to survival has destroyed many lives,” Parker said.
In his speech, the Director and Producer of the movie, Dagogo Diminas has said that when the HIV/AIDS virus was first heard, nobody wants to talk about it, but citizens have become painfully aware of the devastating loss of life, especially in the African continent.
While speaking with The Newswriter News Editor, Diminas confessed that the movie was the result of the serious challenges posed to the Africans, stressing that victims of the virus, HIV/AIDs should understand that there is more to life than mourning forever.
While expressing the determination of several likeminded people of immense conscience, who accepted to turn things around, Diminas said the movie is a contribution of the Nollywood, Ministry of Health, Rivers State and indeed Rivers State Government to fight against stigmatization with people living with HIV/AIDS, positing that the film will save lives.
Amongst the several actors and actresses who cast the movie and present at the event were Jackie Appiah as Vanessa, Hilda Dokubo as Ibiso, Emeka Ike as Dr. Jide, Soibifaa Dokubo as Smart, Daniel Braide as Ebiye, Veteran actress Ngozi Nwosu as Telema, Francis Duru as Counselor Edet, Clem Ohameze as Pastor Jude and several others on the cast list and roles.
The event which was held at the Silverbird Cinema hall, Abonema Wharf Road, Port Harcourt was well attended with the Chief Medical Director of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Professor Aaron Ojuile who represented the Minister of Health Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu at the occasion.
The Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi was absent at the event. ###
James Mgboineme
