COVID-19: Ban on public gatherings, markets, churches still stands in Benue – Ortom

By Jimin Geoffrey

Governor Samuel Ortom has reiterated the directive of the state government for people of the state to maintain social distancing and adhere to measures that can help curb the spread of the deadly Coronavirus, COVID-19.

The Governor spoke with journalists today at the New Banquet Hall of the Benue Peoples House Makurdi shortly after receiving briefing from the State Action Committee on COVID-19, headed by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Benson Abounu.

He stated that based on the increasing cases of the virus in the country, the state had to maintain the lockdown order for the good of the general public, stressing that even though the decision may be harsh, it remains a necessary sacrifice that all must make.

The Governor noted that 23 contacts traced to the first and only index case of the virus in the state including staff of the Grace Cottage Hospital where Mrs. Susan Okpe was first admitted were still isolated and monitored, pointing out that the 14 days incubation period would expire by weekend.

He stated that the sample of the Doctor who attended to her at the hospital was taken to Abuja and the result still being awaited, noting that the state would not leave any storn unturned to contain the spread of the virus.

According to the Governor, fumigation of markets in Makurdi and Otukpo had already been completed and same exercise ongoing in Gboko, stressing that Churches, Mosques, Parks and other public places would also be fumigated.

He noted that this year’s Easter celebration would be done indoors as mist of the Church activities as well as Mosques require close contact with one another which is against the social distancing order.

The Governor while commending the Action Committee for a job well done, also acknowledged the support and cooperation of security agents and people of the state during the lockdown, saying the situation would be reviewed when the committee meets next Monday.

Deputy Governor, Engr. Benson Abounu had during the briefing, stated that intensive training of medical personnel had been carried out, adding that awareness campaigns on preventive measures had also reached the hinterlands and was still being carried out among others.