Delta rushes medical aid to Uzere as oil spill, gas leak raise health concerns

By Diden Abigail Owuntarose

The Delta State Government has commenced a three-day free medical outreach in Uzere community, Isoko South Local Government Area, following an oil spill and gas leak incident that raised concerns over residents’ health and safety.

The exercise, which began on Monday, November 2, is aimed at providing medical attention to residents who may have developed health complications following the incident.

The state government deployed medical personnel and essential medical supplies to the community, with services covering surgical and general medical care, dental treatment and eye care.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, said the outreach was ordered by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori following his visit to the affected sites to assess the situation and its possible health implications.

According to the commissioner, the medical intervention is designed to ensure that residents have access to healthcare and necessary treatment without financial barriers.

The medical team is also conducting examinations and identifying patients who require further treatment or surgical procedures.

The outreach forms part of the state government’s response to the environmental incident, which has affected the oil-producing community and raised concerns about the wellbeing of residents.

The government has urged community members to cooperate with the medical personnel and take advantage of the free services available during the exercise.

The three-day programme is expected to run until Wednesday, November 4, as authorities continue efforts to address the health concerns of residents affected by the incident.