COVID-19: A’Ibom to review lockdown order over 2 fresh cases
As the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) announced two fresh cases of coronavirus in Akwa Ibom state, Governor Udom Emmanuel is set to extend the lockdown order as a means to check further spread of the pandemic.
Addressing journalists in Uyo on Friday, the Chairman of COVID-19 Incident Management Committee and Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem said Governor Udom Emmanuel would review the lockdown order on April 27, in line with current realities of the situation in the state.
Meanwhile, an earlier order by the governor elapsed on April 24, paving way for the extension in another two days.
“In view of the critical situation that we are in as a nation and as a state, although it would have been desirable to call off the lockdown at this juncture, but given that we must ensure continuous safety of our citizens, the most ideal thing for now is to continue with the lockdown until April 27,” Ekuwen said.
The secretary to the state government explained that Governor Udom Emmanuel has provided leadership and directions in handling the pandemic in the state.
“Our dear Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has been on top of the situation, providing leadership and giving directions in the fight to mitigate the spread and effects of the novel coronavirus on the generality of our people,” he added.
Source at the Government House in Uyo, who preferred anonymity told our correspondent that Governor Emmanuel may extend the lockdown due to the fresh cases announced by NCDC.
He noted that the efforts of the state in fighting the disease has been acknowledged by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) despite 11 cases confirmed in the state .
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He said out of the 11 cases, three have been discharged while the other five cases were active in intensive care and latest two cases would be handled properly by health professionals in the state.
“Our isolation centres in Ikot Ekpene and at the Ibom Specialty Hospital are in top shape to accommodate any eventualities, the administration has intensified efforts at completing the 300-bed isolation centre at the General Hospital, Ituk Mbang.
“A few days back, our dear governor visited the site to assess the level of work done so far. I am happy to let you know that the facility will soon be ready for use with state-of-the-art medical facilities,” Ekuwen added.
The secretary to the state government appealed to health workers in the state to protect themselves, noting that some of them have resorted to self-medication despite the unpleasant consequences.
“As the first responders to the COVID-19 pandemic, we implore our healthcare professionals to do all they can to protect themselves.
“We have followed with deep concern, the spate of self-care and administration of drugs by some of our physicians which has led to unpleasant consequences,” he said.
