The federal government has commenced laboratory investigations to uncover the exact cause of a mysterious flesh-eating disease that has claimed seven lives in Malabu, Adamawa State.
Dr. Adesigbin Olufemi, acting national coordinator of the National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, confirmed the development during an interview with newsmen in Abuja.
According to Olufemi, as of September 10, a total of 67 cases had been confirmed, while eight patients were receiving surgical treatment at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola.
“These are undergoing surgical treatment with the support of the government,” he said, noting that a coordinated response was in place to contain the medical emergency within affected communities.
Reports from the community indicate that the strange disease typically begins as a boil, later bursts open, and progressively destroys surrounding flesh, in some cases extending to the bones.
Olufemi disclosed that while the exact cause of the outbreak remains uncertain, Buruli ulcer is strongly suspected.
“This tropical disease is still under investigation for confirmation,” he explained.
He further stated that Buruli ulcer is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, a bacterium often found in swampy environments and stagnant water bodies.
“Up till now, nobody is sure exactly how it is transmitted. Some theories suggest insects like water fleas or mosquitoes may inoculate individuals when they bite,” Olufemi added.
The coordinator commended the swift response of the Adamawa State Government, working alongside federal health agencies and the non-governmental partner, REDAID, which joined the intervention on September 14.
He revealed that patients with mild symptoms were being treated in local health centres, while severe cases requiring surgery were referred to specialised hospitals for advanced care.
Olufemi stressed that community sensitisation remained critical, noting that some residents initially attributed the outbreak to witchcraft, which caused delays in seeking timely medical treatment.
“One of the things that is very important, and that’s what we are doing, is to continue to create awareness,” he said, urging locals to seek early medical attention.
He pointed out that Malabu is a remote settlement located about two hours from Yola, with poor road infrastructure, making rapid medical intervention more challenging.
Beyond medical treatment, Olufemi emphasised that long-term health security depended on access to clean water and improved sanitation in rural areas.
“People will not need to go to those rivers to fetch water if they have pipe-borne or borehole water around them. That way, they are less exposed,” he explained.
He reassured Nigerians that both federal and state governments, in partnership with health organisations, remain committed to providing treatment and curbing the spread of the disease.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) classifies Buruli ulcer as one of the world’s most neglected tropical diseases, primarily affecting rural and riverine communities with limited healthcare access.