By Frank Ulom
The Representative of Cross River at the Niger Delta Development Board, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has joined the family of Ikpeme to mourn their 23-year-old son, Prince David John Ikpeme who died of typhoid in Calabar, the state capital.
Converseer gathered that Ikpeme who died after a brief illness said to be typhoid, was a well-behaved child beloved by the community of Egerton in Calabar South.
Expressing his remorse while burying the deceased at the Hawkins Cemetery in Calabar on Friday, Duke said, “I feel saddened by this event as his life has been cut short. The last time we met was 20 years ago when he was still a little kid. My coming to meet with him should have been in a celebration and not in death but God knows best.”
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Duke, in a sober reflection, commended the youths, students, and family for their resilience in coming together to lay Ikpeme to rest.
He acknowledged their strength during this difficult time and offered his support to them as they navigate through their grief.
In a commitment to address critical issues facing the community, Duke emphasised his dedication to tackling challenges in education and health. He assured the people, stating, “I am a phone call away from you as there are two areas I don’t joke with – these are health and education. Hence, I am giving you the assurance of a prompt response.”
The NDDC Rep’s pledge underscores his determination to prioritise the well-being and development of his constituents.
Converseer reports that typhoid is a bacterial disease that is spread through contaminated food, water or close contact.
Symptoms of typhoid include pain in the abdomen or muscles, gastrointestinal bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting. Others are whole-body fatigue, fever, chills, loss of appetite, or malaise. Also common is headache, muscle weakness, rose spots, skin rash, or weight loss.
Treatment consists of fluids and antibiotics.
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