Umahi approves N1bn to cushion effects of COVID-19

The governor of Ebonyi state, David Umahi on Thursday, approved another N1 billion as palliative to cushion the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the people of the state.

Umahi made this known in Abakaliki, at a joint press briefing through the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Mr. Uchenna Orji and Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Rev. Fr. Abraham Nwali, shortly after executive council meeting that took place at the Government House, Abakaliki.

The approval of the said N1billion by the governor, is coming barely one week after he approved N200 million to fight the scourge in the state.

Recall that, since the eruption of this coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria, Ebonyi state has not recorded any case of COVID-19, even though the state is one of the lucky states in the south -east region to have a testing machine for the virus.

Ebonyi state is adjudged to be one of the advantageous states in Nigeria that has not been ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic, but has recorded a partial lockdown resulting to sufferings and hardships among the people in the state.

The Daily Times gathered that the governor is not unaware of the increasing hardships and hunger ravaging the people and has decided to approve another whooping N1 billion apart from the earlier approbed N2 million.

Umahi noted that the said N1BILLION billion will be used to purchase 400,000 sachet bags of rice to be distributed to Ebonyians in the 13 local government areas of the state.

He said: “COVID-19 has created a lot of issues; the spread of hardships and economic challenges across the nation. The governor has pro-actively approved one billion naria as a palliative to the people of Ebonyi state.

“This N1 billion will enable us procure 400,000 number of 5kg rice and distributed to the people of the state” he said.

On his part, Rev.Fr Nwali announced the lifting of ban placed on religious leaders from conducting xhurch services.

READ ALSO: Ortom distributes tractors to Benue farmers

Nwali noted that all Sunday services should be conducted between 8:00am to 12:00 noon.

“All worshippers must ensure compliance to the use of face masks inside and outside the church and as well maintain reasonable distance, must comply to hand washing and use of sanitizers.

“Every church service must begin by 8am and must conclude by 12noon, every Sunday.

“Do not stay beyond 12noon and ensure the observance multiple services to avoid overcrowding, for large congratulations,” he stated.