By Muyiwa Abiodun

Malaria outbreak has been reported in Abugi Community in Lokoja Local government Area of Kogi State, claiming the lives of an unspecified number of people including teenagers and elderly.

Investigation revealed  that the widespread malaria, was caused by the activities of gold miners that have ravaged the Communities.

Non-availability of Long Lasting Insecticidal Treated Nets (LLINs) to households has also made the rural dwellers to be predisposed to malaria attack.

The Chinese firm mining in one of the Communities in the State, is yet to make any effort in assisting the sleepy Village to overcome the horrible situation . 

Malaria epidemic is not the only sickness facing the villagers, as many residents were said to have been  afflicted by tuberculosis and lungs disease as a result of the illegal mining activities.

TheNewspad reports that some youths in the affected Community have been trying to send the Chinese company out of the place.

But their effort has been resisted by some prominent individuals from the affected areas that are in positions of authority.

Some leaders in the Community where not left out of the evil scheme because of the pecuniary benefits that has been accruing to them monthly from the illegal mining activities.

When our Correspondent visited the company’s site in the Community to speak with the Manager, Mr. Soa Thong, declined comment.

He however promised to reach out to his superior in Abuja before making comment on the situation.

A statement from the State Ministry of Health on measures the Government has taken to curb the epidemic, is being awaited.

Featured image: credit Google

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