By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
A 54-year-old woman has died from Lassa fever in Benue State, prompting swift government intervention and the closure of a private mortuary in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu Local Government Area, over a breach of safe burial protocol.
Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche, who confirmed the incident, led a delegation of health officials and security operatives to Ogbadibo and Okpokwu LGAs to contain the situation and prevent further spread.
The deceased, an indigene of Ogbadibo LGA, reportedly died at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi, where laboratory results confirmed she had Lassa fever.
However, during burial arrangements, agitated youths allegedly forcibly seized the corpse from the Ministry’s Rapid Response Team and took it to a private mortuary in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu LGA, thereby violating safety protocols.
Acting on Dr. Ogwuche’s directive, a combined team of the Ministry’s officials, security agencies, and local authorities intervened.
The commissioner told journalists that following dialogue with family members, traditional rulers, and youth leaders, the body was recovered and safely buried in Orokam by the State Safe Burial Team in line with WHO and NCDC guidelines.
Dr. Ogwuche ordered the immediate closure and decontamination of the private hospital and mortuary involved, pending full epidemiological investigation.
He also directed that all facility staff and 50 persons who had contact with the deceased be placed under medical surveillance.
While briefing journalists, the Commissioner said health education and awareness campaigns have been launched across Ogbadibo and Okpokwu to prevent panic and promote community hygiene.
“Public health safety is our top priority. The government cannot tolerate any action that endangers lives. We appreciate the cooperation of traditional rulers, local government chairmen, and security agencies who helped resolve the situation peacefully,” Dr. Ogwuche stated.
He warned residents against handling corpses of persons who die from suspected infectious diseases and urged anyone experiencing prolonged fever or bleeding symptoms to report immediately to the nearest health facility.
Dr. Ogwuche reaffirmed that under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Iormen Alia, the state government remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and maintaining vigilance against public health threats.
