A missionary pastor with the Church of Christ in Nations has died after reportedly being bitten by a venomous snake while serving in Boltim village, Gamakai District, Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The deceased, identified as Rev Nankur Peter Kundul, reportedly received treatment at Sabon Gida Clinic after the incident but later succumbed to the snakebite.
A fellow cleric, Rinkyer Asaph, announced the death on Monday, expressing concern over the reported rise in fatal snakebite cases in the community.
Asaph said Kundul’s death was particularly troubling as two other Christians had allegedly died from snakebites in the area within the preceding week.
He said, “My heart is deeply saddened by the death of my friend, Pastor Nankur Peter Kundul of COCIN Boltim, Gamakai, who lost his life to a snakebite at the Sabon Gida Clinic.”
The cleric warned that the situation could disrupt farming activities in Gamakai, an area heavily dependent on agriculture, if residents become afraid to access their farmlands.
He called on the Plateau State Government and relevant health authorities to urgently investigate the reported increase in venomous snakes, strengthen preventive measures and ensure prompt access to effective treatment for victims.
“Another person must not die from a snakebite that could have been prevented or treated. Gamakai is an emergency that deserves a swift response from the authorities,” Asaph said.