By: Bayero Ade
A suspected cholera outbreak has reportedly claimed three lives, leaving several others in critical condition in Isiodum, a community in the Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to Vanguard, Dr. Gogo-Ogute Isaiah, a former chairman of the local government, raised the alarm on Saturday, warning that more lives might be lost if urgent action is not taken to address the situation.
In a statement, Dr. Isaiah recounted, “I was in my community, Unyeada, this morning with a team of engineers from Bopean TotalEnergies to inspect the ongoing water rehabilitation project when I received news of the suspected cholera outbreak in Isiodum.”
He continued, “Last night, two residents of Isiodum, Mr. Michael Agba and Mrs. Abigail Rowland, passed away after suffering from severe vomiting and diarrhea. This morning, January 11th, 2025, another resident, Mrs. Ekenere Awaji Loveday, also died from similar symptoms. Others, including Mrs. Amos Asitor, are in critical condition as accessing medical care in the area remains nearly impossible.”
Isiodum, a neglected ancient community close to Unyeada, reportedly lacks access to clean drinking water, exacerbating the situation.
Dr. Isaiah has called on the state government, particularly the Ministry of Health, to intervene immediately to prevent further loss of life. “I urge the relevant authorities to act swiftly to rescue the inhabitants, as many are contemplating abandoning the community for safety,” he said.
Meanwhile, a source in the Ministry of Health confirmed that a medical team has been dispatched to Isiodum to contain the outbreak. Those affected are reportedly receiving treatment as efforts continue to manage the situation.
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