By Emmanuel Abi Couson
The Rivers State Government on Thursday 9 Jan reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare services for survivors of the New Year’s gas explosion in the state.
This was disclosed by the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Odu, during a visit to the survivors at the State Government Hospital on Wednesday.
Speaking after assessing the victims’ conditions, Professor Odu expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of three lives out of the 18 persons affected by the explosion.
She assured the public of the state government’s resolve to provide comprehensive medical support to ensure the remaining survivors receive the best possible care.
Professor Odu, accompanied by the Commissioner for Health, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, and the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, are touring the facility to assess the condition of the survivors.
The blast, which occurred on Saturday, January 4 resulted in severe burns to at least 18 persons, three of whom — including a father who was a cell phone repairer and his daughter, died at the hospital due to injuries sustained from the explosion.
Among the victims, nine were members of the Jehovah’s Witness Community, who had gathered to speak with one of their members, the cellphone repairer, who tragically lost his life with his daughter.
The survivors are currently receiving treatment in various wards at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital.
