Imo State Orders School Closures After Diphtheria Claims Lives in Orlu

 

The Imo State government has temporarily closed schools in several communities within the Orlu Local Council. This action was taken due to a diphtheria outbreak that has tragically claimed the lives of three children – one girl and two boys – in areas including Amihie Ward, Obibi Ochasi, Okwuabala, and Ihiteowere.

Prof. B.T.O. Ikegwuoha, the state’s Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, confirmed the decision, stating that new cases were identified in the region, with at least three additional cases in nearby households. He emphasized that the school closures are a precautionary measure to prevent further spread of the disease.

The affected areas include:

▪️ Obibi Ochasi

▪️ Ogberuru

▪️ Okwuabala

▪️ Ihioma Clan

▪️ Ihitenansa

▪️ Asaa Ubirielem

▪️ Umuhu Okabia

▪️ Surrounding communities

This is not the first instance of diphtheria-related school closures in Imo State recently, as a similar outbreak occurred in Aboh Mbaise three weeks prior, leading to six fatalities and temporary school shutdowns there. Those schools had only recently reopened after the outbreak was reportedly contained.

The Commissioner stated that the current closures in Orlu were made in consultation with Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Executive Chairman of Orlu Council, Pastor Chris Mbarie, to prioritize the safety of students.