The Imo State Health Commissioner, Dr. Chioma Egu, has cleared the air about a video circulating online claiming that a student from the Technical Training College (TTC) in Irete, Owerri West, died from diphtheria.

She said the story going around on social media is not true and does not match the real facts of the case.

Dr. Egu explained that her Ministry looked into the matter and found that the case in question wasn’t diphtheria at all. Instead, it may be a case of cancer (malignancy), which has nothing to do with any contagious disease.

She also mentioned that health experts from the Public Health Department are already handling the case professionally and following the proper steps used in such situations.

According to Dr. Egu, early checks and investigations showed no signs of diphtheria in the school or the area (Owerri West LGA).

The Health Ministry urged everyone not to worry, assuring parents and the public that everything is under control and there is no health scare.

Dr. Egu warned that spreading fake news in places like schools can cause fear and stress among people.

She advised that people should avoid sharing unconfirmed stories because such actions can lead to panic and disrupt the efforts of health workers.