The state’s Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Felix Tangwami, disclosed the disturbing development to SaharaReporters, describing the situation as “deeply concerning.”
At least eight people have been confirmed dead in Malabu, a community in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State, following an outbreak of a suspected Buruli ulcer disease.
The state’s Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Felix Tangwami, disclosed the disturbing development to SaharaReporters, describing the situation as “deeply concerning.”
SaharaReporters had on September 6, 2025 reported that an epidemic struck Adamawa State, as no fewer than 28 people were identified with the rare disease that consumes human flesh and destroys the bones.
Dr. Suleiman Bashir, the Chairman of the Adamawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, confirmed the outbreak to SaharaReporters on Saturday, disclosing that some of the victims were being treated at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola.
According to him, specimens from patients have been sent to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Abuja for histology and further analysis.
“Results are expected in the next 10 days. We encourage victims to accept medical treatment rather than rely on traditional medicine,” Bashir said.
The health official revealed that while 28 victims were identified, only eight agreed to undergo medical treatment despite the state government covering the costs at MAUTH.
While confirming the fatalities on Wednesday, Tangwami said samples collected from patients have been sent to the National Reference Laboratory for testing and confirmation, while health authorities continue to closely monitor the community to forestall further spread.
“Some of the surviving patients are currently receiving specialised treatment at Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola. Our medical team is working round the clock to stabilize their condition,” he said.
The commissioner added that the state government, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and other development partners, has deployed emergency response teams, launched awareness campaigns, and supplied medical provisions to contain the outbreak.
Tangwami urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, stressing that while the fatalities are tragic, the situation is under control.
He advised against unsafe traditional treatments, urging community members to maintain proper hygiene and report suspicious skin swellings or ulcers promptly.