LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigerian media personality Chude Jideonwo has shared a deeply personal story about living with Tourette Syndrome, shedding light on a condition many people still misunderstand.
In a recent interview with BBC News Africa, he revealed that he has been living with Tourette Syndrome, a condition he was diagnosed with in his 20s and kept it hidden for years.
Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects the brain and nervous system. It causes people to make sudden, repeated movements or sounds, known as tics that they cannot easily control.
These tics can range from simple actions like blinking or throat clearing to more noticeable movements or vocal outbursts.
While the condition has no known cure, symptoms can be managed with proper care and support.
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Speaking candidly, Jideonwo explained that he initially kept his diagnosis secret due to fear of judgment.
According to him, his doctor warned that speaking publicly about the condition could lead to stigma, especially within African society.
“When I was diagnosed, my doctor warned me not to talk about it in public that people are going to judge me. Especially in Africa. I began to consciously notice Tourette Syndrome in my late 20s. Is a neurological where it feels like your body misfires,” he said.
Over time, he began to understand his condition better and recognize its signs.
His decision to speak out now reflects a path toward openness, using his platform to raise awareness about neurological disorders that are often misunderstood and stigmatized in society.
