Parliament took an unexpected turn on Wednesday when former Defence Minister and Bimbilla MP, Dominic Nitiwul, deviated from a fisheries debate to sound the alarm on unhealthy eating habits and belly fat.
Speaking during deliberations on the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025, Nitiwul urged both lawmakers and the wider public to rethink their diets, particularly when it comes to fatty foods. He argued that abdominal fat isn’t just a cosmetic concern, but often a sign of poor health.
According to him, a bulging stomach typically indicates fat accumulation — a situation that should not be ignored. “If your belly sticks out, you’re unwell,” he said, emphasizing the importance of dietary mindfulness.
However, the MP was quick to clarify that he wasn’t labeling all plus-sized individuals as sick. His remarks, he stressed, were aimed at encouraging Ghanaians to be more intentional about their health and nutrition.
The comments sparked laughter across the chamber after Akatsi South MP and First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, jokingly dubbed the advice the “Nitiwul Theory,” drawing chuckles from both sides of the House.
Meanwhile, the House returned to the main agenda—the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill. Sector Minister Emelia Arthur appealed to lawmakers for bipartisan backing, explaining that the bill is key to improving management of Ghana’s marine resources and protecting aquatic ecosystems.
She noted that Ghana risks trade sanctions from the European Union—specifically the dreaded “yellow card” on seafood exports—if stronger legislation isn’t implemented to regulate the industry and ensure sustainable fishing practices.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
