Senator Shehu Sani's Controversial Dietary Advice Sparks Health Debate

July 21, 2025, Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has ignited a fierce debate within Nigeria's public health sector and among citizens with a series of sweeping dietary recommendations, delivered via social media and public statements. His unconventional advice, urging Nigerians to abstain from common staples like bread, rice, noodles, and even red meat, has drawn the ire of medical professionals who emphasize a balanced, evidence-based approach to healthy living. Sani's pronouncements, which include "Don’t Eat Bread, Don’t eat Rice, Don’t eat Noodles, Don’t eat red meat, Don’t eat late, Don’t eat starchy foods, Avoid Sugar, Avoid Maggi, Avoid Maize, Avoid soda, Don’t go close to Kpomo," have been widely circulated and discussed. While some of his suggestions, such as avoiding excessive sugar and soda, align with general health guidelines, the wholesale condemnation of widely consumed food items like rice, bread, and maize has raised significant concerns. His inclusion of "Kpomo" (cowhide, a popular local delicacy) in the list has particularly amused and baffled many. Medical practitioners across Nigeria have been quick to respond, with many expressing alarm over the potential for such pronouncements from a public figure to mislead the populace. Dr. Aisha Bello, a prominent nutritionist based in Lagos, stated, "While it's true that moderation and a balanced diet are key, demonizing entire food groups without scientific backing is irresponsible. Rice, for instance, is a primary carbohydrate source for millions of Nigerians and provides essential energy. The issue is not the food itself, but portion control, preparation methods, and overall dietary diversity." Similarly, Dr. Emeka Okoro, President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in a press briefing, underscored the importance of consulting qualified healthcare professionals for dietary advice. "Our concern is that such broad, unscientific statements can lead to unnecessary fear, nutritional deficiencies, and even health complications if people drastically alter their diets based on non-expert advice," Dr. Okoro asserted. He emphasized that personalized dietary recommendations are crucial, taking into account individual health conditions, activity levels, and cultural food practices. Critics also point out the impracticality of Sani's advice for many Nigerians, particularly those in lower-income brackets who rely on affordable and readily available carbohydrate sources. "For many, bread, rice, and maize are not just food; they are sustenance," commented Mrs. Chioma Eze, a market vendor in Abuja. "How can you tell people not to eat what they can afford and what keeps them going?"