Jos—Snakes fleeing flooded areas in communities
in Kanam and Kanke Local Government areas of
Plateau State have bitten no fewer than 50 persons
in the last two weeks.
This was confirmed by the member representing
Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency
in the House of Representatives, Timothy Golu, who
noted that some of the victims had died, while 13
others were in critical conditions at Jos University
Teaching Hospital, JUTH, and 20 in traditional snake
treating homes in the state.
He added that some others were visiting the healing
centres as outpatients due to lack of bed space.
Golu stressed that the situation was "very scary
and pathetic," adding that the snakes, which moved
about openly in pairs, were washed into the
communities by flood.
Cause
He said: "As flood pushed them from the over flown
tributaries of River Benue, some snakes climbed
trees, others entered holes, while some just held
unto any available straw. They all later descended
into residences and farms, wreaking havoc.
"The commonest species were the black mamba,
carpet viper and cobra. Most victims usually
depend on luck to survive."
He urged the Federal and Plateau State
governments to treat the snake invasion as a
national issue, urging residents to be vigilant and
protect themselves from bites.
