The Imo State Government has ordered the reopening of nursery, primary, and secondary schools in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, following a diphtheria outbreak that previously forced closures and claimed the lives of several children.
Health officials who managed the outbreak have assured the government that the diphtheria has been effectively contained, easing concerns about its further spread.
Acting on this assurance, Iheukwumere Alaribe, the chairman of Aboh Mbaise Local Government Council and a lawyer by profession, announced the directive for schools to resume operations starting June 11, 2025.
In an official statement from his office on Sunday, June 15, Alaribe outlined precautionary measures to ensure a safe learning environment. These include a requirement for all students to present proof of vaccination before returning to class. Additionally, school administrators and principals are instructed to report any health-related incidents promptly to relevant authorities.
Alaribe also tasked the education secretary and all school leaders with enforcing strict adherence to these health guidelines.
He urged the community to work collaboratively to maintain the well-being of learners and commended the health workers for their dedication in containing the outbreak.
He expressed optimism for a safe and successful restart of academic activities across the schools.
