Urgent Call for Action Against River Blindness in Taraba

Yunusa Ahmed Danjuma, a stakeholder in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State, has issued an urgent appeal for intervention regarding the increasing burden of onchocerciasis, or river blindness, in Murbai community. In an open letter dated Friday, he addressed the Executive Chairman of the council, Umar Bello Badawaire; Ardo-Kola Constituency member Happy J. Shonruba; and Federal Constituency member Abdullahi Muhammed Lauya, among others.

Danjuma reported that residents are suffering severe consequences from the disease, including loss of sight and livelihoods. He emphasized the need for immediate government action, as the affected communities rely on their environment for economic activities.

Danjuma called for the deployment of emergency healthcare teams in collaboration with the Taraba State Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Health to provide mass ivermectin treatment and vector-control measures. He also requested the establishment of medical relief centers for eye care and rehabilitation, urging local leaders to prioritize the welfare of their constituents.