Most of the victims are women and children.
The infected are receiving treatment at the Oturpko General Hospital and some private hospitals in the town, according to an investigation by The Nation.
The cholera outbreak was first reported in wards 1 and 2 of Oturkpo and later spread to Allan Akpa, Otobi Akpa and Ewulo.
A source at the Otukpo General Hospital, who preferred anonymity, said the outbreak “is becoming excessively prevalent.”
He added: “There is hardly a day that we do not record new cases of the disease in the hospital and most of the patients who include women and children are usually from the main town.
“The situation in neighbouring villages is even worse because we hear daily of new cases and deaths in these communities. And the figure keeps rising due mainly to lack of proper Medicare for victims.
“In the last few days we have recorded about 12 deaths while over 80 persons are receiving treatment in the hospital and if the government does not act fast, we might be faced with a pandemic with its attendant consequences on the health of the people of the town.”
When contacted, the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government, Dr. Innocent Onuh, who is also a medical doctor, said the council had commenced free distribution of necessary drugs to hospitals and patients.
“Apart from that, we have also intensified publicity around the town, informing the people of the need for them to boil their water before drinking.
“As for the number of deaths, I cannot specifically tell you now because most of the cases are being recorded in the hinterlands but we are also collaborating with the state government and the state ministry of health to stem the disease. I can assure you that we are on top of the situation right now.”
A few months ago, Otukpo town was hit by water scarcity after the firm contracted by the Benue state government to rehabilitate the Otobi water works and supply water to Otukpo and its environs at the cost of over N2billion shut down the water plant following the failure of the Federal Government to redeem its financial commitment Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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