A wave of grief has swept through Lissam Sambo (Pangtso) community in Ussa Local Government Area of Taraba State following the tragic d3aths of two residents from snakebite within a 24-hour period.
One of the victims, Elder Bako Awanki, d!ed on Thursday evening, 23 July 2026, while the second victim, who was bitten in a different location, passed away later that same night.
Lissam Sambo (Pangtso), a border community adjoining the Republic of Cameroon, is one of the most remote communities in Ussa LGA.
According to the Chairman of the Lissam Sambo (Pangtso) Community Development Association, Mr. Danladi Bewa, the lack of a nearby health facility equipped with anti-snake venom forced both victims to rely on traditional treatment.
Unfortunately, the delay in accessing appropriate medical care proved fatal.
Bewa, expressed deep concern over the recurring loss of lives to snakebites in the community.
He lamented that several residents have died under similar circumstances because anti-snake venom is not readily available and the nearest healthcare facilities are located far from the community.
Mr. Bewa appealed to the Executive Chairman of Ussa Local Government Council, Hon. Abershi Musa, to urgently provide anti-snake venom to the community in order to prevent further loss of lives.
He also called on the Taraba State Commissioner for Health to intervene by ensuring that life-saving anti-snake venom is made available in the area.
According to him, timely access to the medication would significantly reduce preventable deaths and improve emergency healthcare for residents.
While expressing confidence in the commitment of the local government chairman and the state government to the welfare of the people, Mr. Bewa urged the authorities to act swiftly to address this urgent public health challenge before more lives are lost.
