Oyo State confirms five Lassa fever cases, one death, activates response measures
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Oyo State Government has confirmed five cases of Lassa fever, resulting in one death, and has activated emergency response measures to contain the outbreak. Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the state Commissioner for Health, announced that confirmed cases are being managed at designated isolation and treatment facilities, including the state Infectious Disease Centre, Olodo, and the University College Hospital isolation unit. The government has initiated a coordinated multi-sectoral intervention in line with national and global guidelines, activating the Incident Management System and Emergency Operations Centre. A multi-sectoral response team comprising officials from health, environment, agriculture, and information sectors has been established. Surveillance has been intensified, including active case searches and monitoring of over 200 identified contacts. Isolation centers are operational, and essential drugs like Ribavirin have been prepositioned. Infection prevention and control measures have been strengthened, with personal protective equipment provided and safe burial protocols implemented. Environmental sanitation, fumigation, and decontamination of affected areas are ongoing, alongside continuous training for healthcare workers. Residents are urged to adhere to preventive measures such as proper food storage, maintaining clean environments, avoiding contact with rodents, and seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms. Suspected cases should be reported immediately
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 10 countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes revealed he turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal due to family considerations, personal ambition, and a desire to help his club. Despite reports that United officials would not block his departure, Fernandes discussed the opportunity with his family and chose to remain at Old Trafford. He acknowledged the financial appeal of the Saudi offer but emphasized that his family prioritizes personal fulfillment and achieving dreams over wealth. Fernandes stated that a conversation with his wife helped solidify his decision, as she questioned if he had achieved all his dreams. Another key factor was his loyalty to Manchester United during a challenging period, as he did not want to leave the club while it was struggling. Fernandes, who has scored 106 goals in 322 appearances since 2020, aims to win major honors like the Premier League and Champions League. With one year left on his contract, his long-term future remains a topic of discussion amid the club's cost-cutting measures.
MTN has started compensating some subscribers with airtime credits due to poor quality of service experienced in January 2026. Affected users have received notifications, with credit amounts varying, such as N20, N91, and N341. It is not yet clear if all affected subscribers have received compensation. This action follows regulatory directives for telecom operators to address network performance complaints and provide compensation when necessary. MTN previously stated its commitment to complying with these directives and investing in network upgrades. Details regarding the total number of affected subscribers and the compensation criteria are still unclear.
Must ReadThe Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM has issued a safety alert to Nigerians residing in South Africa, urging them to adhere to advisories from the Nigerian Consulate General following an increase in anti-foreigner protests. A circular from the Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, dated April 22, 2026, reported violent demonstrations in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal, which included looting, property damage, and injuries. NiDCOM, through its Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, stated that intelligence indicates further protests are planned in Gauteng Province from April 27 to 29, 2026. These demonstrations aim to pressure the South African government regarding the presence of foreign nationals. NiDCOM advises Nigerian citizens to avoid confrontation with protesters, refrain from engaging with demonstration groups, and monitor local media for safety updates, while also urging them to remain law-abiding. Nigerian business owners are advised to temporarily close their shops on Freedom Day, April 27, and consider remaining closed on April 28 and 29, as foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during unrest. NiDCOM reiterated its support for Consul-General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, confirming the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg is operational and collaborating with South African police to ensure the safety of Nigerian nationals. The commission also noted that the Minister of State for For
President Bola Tinubu held a closed-door meeting with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and other members of the House at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The meeting occurred shortly after lawmakers joined the President for Jummah prayers at the State House mosque. Officials confirmed Speaker Abbas's arrival with other lawmakers, including the Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Usman Kumo. The substance of the discussions was not disclosed by officials. This meeting follows a similar closed-door session held by the extended leadership of the Senate with President Tinubu on Wednesday. Sources indicated that senators had lobbied for automatic return tickets for the 2027 general elections, a request the President reportedly rebuffed, reaffirming the authority of state governors in candidate selection. President Tinubu also met with APC governors, ceding to them the power to conduct primaries in their states. This decision has reportedly caused anxiety among federal lawmakers, particularly those with strained relationships with their governors, despite the President's earlier suggestion to support the return of serving legislators.