Gas Explosion: C’River Health Commissioner Visits UCTH, Says Over 60 Victims Receiving Treatment

By Ebi COLLINS 

The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, has visited the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) to assess the condition of victims affected by the Saturday morning gas explosion at Edibe Edibe in Calabar South.

Dr. Ayuk, who arrived at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department, on Saturday afternoon, disclosed that over 60 victims of the explosion are currently receiving medical attention.

“We arrived at the Accident and Emergency Department of UCTH where about 60 victims of the gas explosion that occurred along Edibe Edibe, Calabar South, are receiving treatment,” he said.

The commissioner explained that patients with minor burn injuries would be transferred to the General Hospital, Calabar, to ease pressure on the teaching hospital and ensure efficient care for all victims.

“Those with minor degrees of burns will be moved to General Hospital, Calabar,” he added.

Dr. Ayuk was accompanied on the visit by the Special Adviser on General Duties, Barr. Ekpeyong Akiba, and the Medical Superintendent of General Hospital, Calabar, Dr. Takim.

The team was received by the Chief Medical Director of UCTH, Prof. Ikpeme, alongside his deputy, Dr. Abang, who provided updates on the condition and management of the victims.

The visit forms part of the state government’s coordinated response to the explosion, with health authorities working to ensure prompt and adequate treatment for all affected persons.

Further details on the condition of the victims and ongoing medical interventions are expected as assessments continue.