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From George Onyejiuwa, Owerri
Imo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all primary and secondary schools in parts of Orlu Local Government Area (LGA) following a new outbreak of diphtheria in the council area.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Prof. B.T.O. Ikegwuoha, in a public notice dated June 14, 2025.
Reports indicate that the outbreak has claimed three lives so far, two boys and a girl, believed to be school-aged children. While details about their schools remained unclear, the affected towns include Amihie Ward, Obibi Ochasi, Okwuabala, and Ogberuru. Also, there are ongoing investigations into three more suspected cases in the Okwuabala and Ihiteowere areas.
“For me, as Commissioner, it is better to err on the side of caution. With the approval of His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma, this precautionary measure has been taken to ensure the safety of all pupils and students,” Prof. Ikegwuoha stated in the notice.
The closure order applies to both public and private schools in the affected towns and neighbouring communities, including Ihioma clan, Ihittenansa, Asaa Uberielem, Umuhu Okabia and other adjacent areas. Parents, guardians and educational stakeholders have been urged to comply with the directive until further notice.
Explaining the urgency of the situation, Prof Ikegwuoha said: “This public announcement is absolutely important and necessary because it serves as an essential provision of knowledge, which in itself is power. The safety of our students and citizens is our utmost priority.”
In collaboration with the Chairman of Orlu LGA, Pastor Chris Mbarie, the Commissioner underscored the collective decision to prioritise public health over continued schooling in the affected areas. “The Chairman himself shares in my convictions that all schools within the affected towns should remain closed until the situation is under control,” Prof. Ikegwuoha added.
