Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has directed temporary closure of public and private primary schools across the state over diphtheria outbreak.

The disclosure was made in a statement on Saturday by the commissioner for information and communications, Joyce Ramnap.

She stated that the directive was effective from Monday. 

She noted that the government took the decision as preventive measures against the spread of the disease.

Ms Ramnap noted that the suspected cases had been recorded in parts of Jos North, Wase, Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas of the state.

“‎‎Accordingly, schools that have already resumed academic activities are also directed to close from Monday, September 7, 2026, and remain closed until further notice,” the statement noted.

The statement said the governor directed school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and guardians were to comply with the directive.

The governor also said schools should ensure that students and pupils remain at home throughout the period as part of measures to ensure their safety including the teaching and non-teaching staff during the period.

The statement added that Mr Mutfwang appreciated the stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation as the government continued to take appropriate measures in the best interest of the residents.

‎”Further information on the resumption of academic activities will be communicated to the public in due course,” he said.

The Peoples Gazette had reported that 23 peoples were killed by diphtheria in several communities, and 143 others infected in Jos North.