The outbreak has prompted an oversight visit by the Niger State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Nutrition and Primary Healthcare.
At least four persons have died in the Munya Local Government Area of Niger State following a suspected outbreak of a mysterious disease believed to be Buruli ulcer.
The outbreak has prompted an oversight visit by the Niger State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Nutrition and Primary Healthcare.
The committee, chaired by the lawmaker representing Paiko Local Government Area, Hon. PK Nas, visited the affected communities to assess the extent of the outbreak, which has so far affected 16 individuals across different age groups.
Reports presented to the lawmakers showed that most of the victims are adolescents and adults.
According to preliminary findings, the four recorded deaths were linked to complications arising from severe skin ulcers and delayed access to proper medical treatment.
According to Crusaders Radio based in Minna, health workers in the area disclosed that the patients presented with large, destructive ulcers, mostly on the limbs, a symptom pattern consistent with Buruli ulcer, a neglected tropical disease.
Buruli ulcer is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, a bacterium that releases toxins capable of destroying skin and soft tissue. If untreated, the disease can lead to extensive wounds, permanent disability and, in severe cases, death. Medical experts stress that early detection and timely treatment are critical to preventing fatal outcomes.
During the oversight visit, members of the House Committee expressed concern over the fatalities and the vulnerability of rural communities with limited healthcare infrastructure.
The lawmakers observed that primary healthcare centres in Munya Local Government Area lack the capacity to effectively manage complicated cases associated with the disease.
The committee noted that the deaths underscore the urgency of a coordinated response to contain the outbreak and prevent further loss of lives.
As a result, the Niger State House of Assembly has called on the state government to declare a public health emergency in Munya Local Government Area.
Lawmakers also urged the immediate deployment of a multidisciplinary medical team comprising dermatologists, infectious disease specialists and public health officers to investigate the outbreak, confirm the diagnosis and provide treatment to affected persons.
They stressed that proactive intervention could help reduce mortality and halt the spread of the disease.
Beyond emergency response, the Assembly highlighted the need for sustained preventive measures, including improved disease surveillance, health education and community-based interventions.
Preventing Buruli ulcer and other neglected tropical diseases, according to health authorities, requires strengthened primary healthcare systems and increased public awareness, particularly in hard-to-reach communities.
The World Health Organisation provides technical support to countries battling Buruli ulcer, including assistance in surveillance, diagnosis and treatment.
Stakeholders believe that collaboration between the Niger State government, health agencies and international partners will be crucial in addressing the outbreak and ensuring that no additional deaths are recorded in Munya Local Government Area.