Reports have emerged confirming an increasing number of cases of chickenpox and other diseases at the Agagbe Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in Gwer LGA of Benue State.

Last week, it was reported that at least nine children were infected with measles at the same camp.

According to Mr. Terna Jacob, the chairman of the IDP camp, medical doctors from a nearby private hospital diagnosed the presence of chickenpox.

These doctors relayed the information to government officials who visited the camp over the weekend.

The camp manager stated that the government officials, who represented the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), came to assess the truth behind reports in the media about measles, other illnesses, and hunger in the camp.

“SEMA was here to verify the widespread news about sickness and hunger in the Agagbe IDP camp. They interviewed Mrs. Ioryoosu Udisugh, who gave birth in the toilet, and she corroborated the reports,” said Jacob.

He added, “They also visited the European Economic Community (EEC) hospital in Agagbe, where the doctors confirmed the presence of measles. These doctors also reported cases of chickenpox.”

Meanwhile, the camp manager revealed that Reverend Father Bua Cletus, the vicar in charge of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Agagbe, informed him that two individuals had deposited N70,000 into his account to support the urgent healthcare needs in the IDP camp.

“So far, we have been able to take some individuals to St Francis Xavier Primary Health Care in Agagbe. If there is any money remaining, we will continue to admit more sick people,” the camp manager explained.