Thousands of displaced pastoralists are facing a growing health crisis at the IDP camp in Oro-Ago, Kwara State, where about 2,000 people remain under protective custody following recent bandit attacks in the region.
The camp, established roughly three weeks ago, is grappling with severe public health challenges, including cases of measles, viral diarrhoea, acute cough, and suspected tuberculosis.
Poor sanitation, limited toilet facilities, water scarcity, overcrowding, and inadequate medical supplies have exacerbated the situation, forcing camp officials to refer severe cases to nearby health facilities. Eight deaths have already been recorded in the camp due to these health complications.
Army medical personnel monitoring the camp have warned of a potential cholera outbreak, highlighting the urgent need for improved sanitation, water supply, and medical intervention to prevent further fatalities.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, visited the camp on Saturday, to assess conditions and ongoing interventions. The visit comes amid growing concerns about the welfare of displaced pastoralists, who continue to face significant risks from disease and inadequate living conditions.
Officials at the camp continue to coordinate efforts to address the humanitarian needs, but the situation underscores the urgent requirement for targeted health and relief support to protect the vulnerable population.
