Diphtheria Outbreak in Edo: Citizens Demand School Closures as Govt Ramps Up Response

The Edo State Government has confirmed intensified efforts to contain the diphtheria outbreak currently affecting parts of the state, including the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, where at least two deaths have been reported.

Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa made this known on Sunday while addressing the press after attending a thanksgiving event for his predecessor, Philip Shaibu, recently appointed as Director-General of the National Sports Institute by President Bola Tinubu.

Idahosa said the state’s task force on health is actively working to curb the outbreak. Beginning Monday, he will visit Primary Health Centres across the state to assess their readiness and functionality. “We are doing everything we can to manage the outbreak,” he assured.

However, a civic group known as the Concerned Edo Citizens Forum (CEDF) has called on the state government to go further by immediately shutting down schools and restricting public gatherings to prevent further spread.

In a formal appeal to Governor Monday Okpebholo, signed by convener Roy Orihbhaor and secretary Austin Ibude, the group warned of worsening conditions. Their letter, dated June 20, claimed hospitals are overwhelmed and the infection rate is rising.

The group urged the enforcement of mask-wearing and a temporary halt to social events through an executive order. “The death rate has increased in recent times based on our observations and research,” the letter read, calling for “a critical and radical approach” to prevent a health disaster.

While the government has yet to announce a school closure, the growing public outcry signals increasing pressure on the administration to take stronger containment measures.

The situation remains fluid, with health authorities closely monitoring developments as the state works to mitigate the spread and ensure public safety.