On Oct. 8, 2025, See Something, Say Something, a weekly radio advocacy program produced by C-Advocate Newspaper & TV in partnership with Ozisa FM and the Ubenwanne Foundation, dedicated its hour-long broadcast to World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10th.
Hosted by Blessing Iriaka, the program focused on the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right,” emphasizing the importance of recognizing mental health not merely as a personal issue, but as a public concern and a fundamental human right.
Iriaka opened the discussion by highlighting the urgent need for public awareness about the laws and policies that protect mental health.
She stressed how bullying—both online and offline—continues to undermine mental well-being, leading to devastating consequences for individuals and communities.
The conversation then shifted to the legal framework surrounding mental health in Nigeria, notably the National Mental Health Act of 2021 which replaced the archaic Lunacy Act of 1958.
This landmark legislation acknowledges every Nigerian’s right to mental health care, dignity, and freedom from discrimination and abuse.
The law explicitly prohibits inhumane practices such as chaining, torture, and isolation of people living with mental health conditions. It further enshrines the right of individuals to consent to treatment and to live freely within society.
However, the host pointed out that many citizens remain unaware of these protections, which hampers efforts to hold violators accountable and discourages victims from speaking out.
One of the most poignant moments on the program involved sharing real stories from Nigeria that illustrate the ongoing mental health crisis.
The tragic case of BigButFit, a popular TikTok influencer and advocate for body positivity, was recounted.
After enduring relentless cyberbullying and body-shaming, she underwent cosmetic surgery and reportedly died in Lagos months later. Her story shed light on the powerful impact of online harassment on self-esteem and mental health.
The program also addressed the incident involving Namtira Bwala, a secondary school student in Abuja, who was brutalized by schoolmates on video, sparking national outrage.
The National Human Rights Commission swiftly condemned the bullying as a grave violation of human dignity with potential long-term mental health consequences.
These incidents reflect a wider pattern where students nationwide experience psychological violence that can lead to anxiety, depression, and even PTSD, as shown by a 2024 study conducted in Ibadan.
Further analysis on the program focused on policy enforcement, revealing gaps in implementation despite government efforts.
A whistle-blowing policy introduced in schools in December 2024 allows anonymous reports of bullying, yet many schools have failed to adopt it effectively.
Parents often find their concerns dismissed, and young people struggling with depression face societal stigmas that push them toward silence rather than support.
The host urged the government to treat mental health advocacy with the same urgency as physical health campaigns like those against malaria or polio.
Listeners were invited to participate in a call-in segment to share their views and personal experiences relating to mental health laws and bullying.
Many callers expressed frustration with the current system but also voiced hope for change driven by increased public awareness and community action.
The program closed with a heartfelt reflection reinforcing that mental health is a right deserving of dignity, respect, and protection from abuse.
The host concluded by encouraging everyone—especially young people—to seek help without shame and to speak out when they witness bullying or emotional abuse. She reiterated the program’s core message: “If you see something, say something.”
The broadcast ended on a hopeful note with Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World,” reinforcing the collective responsibility to protect mental well-being and promote kindness across society.