Reps Direct NCDC To Contain Spread Of Buruli Ulcer Disease

Following the spread of Buruli Ulcer disease across several communities in Benue State, the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, to take immediate steps to contain the outbreak.

It urged the NCDC to establish a fully equipped diagnostic and treatment laboratory in Ushongo LGA to manage Buruli Ulcer and other infectious diseases.

The resolutions followed a motion raised by member representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency of Benue State,
Terseer Ugbor.

Presenting his motion, Mr Ugbor
said the infectious disease, locally known as “Ambi,” has silently ravaged parts of the state, particularly Ushongo Local Government Area for more than a decade.

He explained that the disease was initially mistaken for witchcraft until Dr. Paul Orhi correctly diagnosed it as a bacterial infection that requires medical treatment.

The Lawmaker expressed concern that despite effective antibiotic treatments being available, the absence of proper diagnostic and laboratory facilities has allowed the disease to spread, leaving victims with severe disabilities, social stigma, and economic hardship.

The lawmaker warned that samples currently have to be transported to Lagos for testing, which often leads to delays and false results.

The house therefore directed the Committee on Healthcare Services to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji