Benue doctor dies from Lassa fever, prompting renewed public health measures
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
A senior medical doctor working with the AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria, located in the Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State, has died due to complications from Lassa fever. The state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh-Ogwuche, confirmed the death on Monday in Makurdi, stating that the ministry has initiated contact tracing and surveillance. The deceased reportedly battled the illness for over two weeks, and a test confirmed Lassa fever. He was referred to the University of Jos Teaching Hospital in Plateau State, where he later died, and was buried on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in accordance with Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention protocols. This death occurred as the state was preparing to be declared free of Lassa fever. Following this new outbreak, the ministry has intensified public awareness campaigns and reactivated response measures across communities. Health authorities are also on alert for other infectious disease threats, including Ebola, and surveillance has been strengthened in health facilities. A new 42-day observation cycle will be required before the state can declare an end to the outbreak.
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Nigeria defender Kenneth Omeruo identified Argentine superstar Lionel Messi as the toughest striker he has faced during his international career with the Super Eagles. Omeruo made this revelation while appearing as a pundit on Sporty TV's coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He faced Messi twice at the FIFA World Cups in 2014 and 2018, with Messi scoring in both encounters. In the 2014 World Cup, Messi scored twice in Argentina's 3-2 group-stage win over Nigeria. Four years later, in 2018, Messi scored again in a 2-1 victory for Argentina, a result that ended Nigeria's chances of progressing to the knockout stages. Despite naming Messi as his toughest opponent, Omeruo stated that Cristiano Ronaldo is his Greatest of All Time. Omeruo also reflected on his first World Cup experience in 2014, describing it as a memorable moment and recalling the overwhelming atmosphere and the privilege of playing alongside Nigerian football legends like Joseph Yobo and Vincent Enyeama. Omeruo was a key player for Nigeria in the 2014 World Cup, starting all four matches as the team reached the round of 16.
The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources Midstream has committed to enhancing legislative oversight of Nigeria's midstream petroleum sector. This initiative aims to improve energy security, boost domestic gas utilization, and ensure greater accountability among operators and regulators. The committee's chairman, Odianosen Okojie, stated that lawmakers will move beyond relying solely on reports and will conduct direct engagements with facilities and stakeholders to understand industry realities. This commitment follows legislative retreats in Port Harcourt and Lagos, where challenges facing the sector were reviewed. The committee has already conducted site visits to Greenville LNG and Indorama Petrochemicals Ltd, expressing satisfaction with Indorama's contributions and engagement, while requesting further documentation from Greenville. The midstream sector, described as the crucial link between hydrocarbon production and domestic consumption, faces challenges including inadequate infrastructure, regulatory disputes, asset vandalism, and pipeline security concerns. The committee commended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited PINL for its role in securing oil and gas assets and providing employment. Okojie emphasized that oversight will now be measured by tangible improvements for Nigerians, such as affordable cooking gas and reliable power, rather than just the number of hearings. The committee plans to hold both regulators and operators accountable, en
Must ReadThe death toll from an attack on Kawel village in Plateau State has risen to 22, including health workers, patients, and security personnel. Residents reported that gunmen invaded the community on Sunday night, shooting and attacking residents. The state police command confirmed 20 deaths, stating the attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday, June 21, 2026, at approximately 4:40 am. Police engaged the assailants, forcing them to retreat. Eighteen people died at the scene, and two of three injured victims later died in the hospital. The Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, has deployed additional tactical teams and personnel to the area to de-escalate tension and search for the perpetrators. A Red Cross official and the Bokkos Youth Leader, Christopher Luka, confirmed the attack on the community's primary healthcare center, where health workers and patients were killed. The Chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos LGA, Kefas Mallai, stated that security personnel arrived after the attackers had left and accused security agencies of inaction despite prior intelligence. The attack follows the killing of District Head Saf Samuel Alaket less than a week prior.