No Mpox Outbreak in Nigeria, Equity International assert

… Condemns Misinformation for Monetary Gains

By Kingsley Chukwuka

Ambassador Chris Iyama, the Country Director of Equity International Initiative (EII) and Convener of Citizens Coalition Against Impunity and Injustice, has challenged the narrative propagated by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding a Monkeypox outbreak called Mpox, in Nigeria. He suggests that certain international organizations may deliberately spread such alarming information for financial benefit.

Iyama noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, significant financial interests were at play, as billions were made from vaccine sales globally.

Amidst these claims, the African Union’s health watchdog declared a public health emergency concerning the Mpox outbreak on the continent. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) emphasized the virus’s spread from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring countries.

Jean Kaseya, head of Africa CDC, had alleged in an online media briefing. “I declare, with a heavy heart and steadfast commitment to our people, that Mpox is a public health emergency of continental security. The virus has crossed borders, affecting thousands across our continent, bringing untold pain and suffering,” Kaseya claimed.

Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) equally claimed in a report on August 16, 2024, that 39 cases of Mpox had been confirmed across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with no deaths reported.

In response, Iyama insists that the narrative surrounding this outbreak is financially motivated, urging Nigerians to remain skeptical and not be swayed by fear-mongering.