Fifty-eight people have been reported killed by a fresh outbreak of cholera in Bauchi State while no fewer than 200 people have been infected, according to official reports of the state government.
CHANNELS TV reported yesterday that the outbreak has so far affected 14 local government areas of the state, raising concerns within the government about the rapid spread of the disease.
The state government has in response inaugurated the Cholera Steering Committee chaired by the deputy governor, Auwal Jatau, alongside a technical working group headed by the commissioner for health, Sani Danbam.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Jatau emphasised the urgent need for coordinated action.
“The recurrent outbreaks continue to claim lives, disrupt livelihoods, and place enormous strain on our health system and socio-economic well-being. As of week 35, the state had recorded 258 new cholera cases and 58 deaths,” he stated.
Jatau tasked members of the committees with leading efforts to save lives and prevent further spread of the disease.
He said, “These committees are expected to serve as the central coordinating bodies to lead Bauchi State’s multi-sectoral response to cholera outbreaks and to drive long-term prevention strategies in alignment with the National Cholera Control Plan and the broader goals of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.”
Members of the committee were drawn from key ministries, departments, and agencies, including health, environment, water resources, education, agriculture, finance, women affairs, and information.
Others include the Bauchi State House of Assembly, security agencies, emergency management bodies, development partners, and civil society organisations.
