The Chairman of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Alhaji Bello Mohammed Jabaka, has called on residents to adopt preventive measures to curb the spread of cholera and other communicable diseases in the area.
He made the call while addressing journalists in Gusau, the state capital, on the steps taken by the council to contain the recent cholera outbreak in parts of the local government.
Alhaji Jabaka emphasized the importance of maintaining hygiene, especially in drinking water sources, food preparation areas, and the general environment, as well as practicing personal hygiene, which he described as key to preventing the spread of cholera.
According to him, cholera can be contracted anywhere, saying that, the public must remain vigilant.
Recounting the situation, he said,
“At the time of the outbreak, I was in the Holy Land when I received a call from the Director of Health of Maru Local Government and the Councillor heading the Health Committee, informing me about the outbreak in parts of Maru, including Jabaka, Mayanchi, Kuyanbana, and other areas.”
He said he immediately directed health officials to transport affected individuals to hospitals for prompt and free medical care.
According to the council chairman, over 27 patients were recorded during the outbreak, all of whom have since recovered and returned to their homes.
He added that subsequent cases were also promptly treated free of charge.
“So far, there have been no reported fatalities resulting from the outbreak,” he confirmed.
Alhaji Jabaka noted that the council had procured adequate medications, which have been distributed to health facilities across the local government to ensure continued free treatment of any new cases.
He prayed for divine intervention for a complete end to the outbreak.
On the issue of insecurity in Maru Local Government, the chairman disclosed that he had directed the regular recitation of the Holy Qur’an every Friday as a spiritual approach to addressing the lingering security challenges.
He expressed optimism that the prayers would support security operatives in their efforts against armed banditry and restore peace to affected communities.
“Prayer is the ultimate remedy for the crises confronting our society,” he stressed.
Alhaji Jabaka also commended Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, for the various developmental projects executed in Maru Local Government, particularly the renovation of the General Hospital, road construction, and other infrastructure projects.
He assured the governor of the continued support and cooperation of the people of Maru to ensure the advancement and progress of Zamfara State.
COV/AMINU DALHATU.
