Politics

Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Wife Distributes Food Items to Women

By Web News 2941

Wife of the Governor of Ogun state, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun has distributed food items worth millions of Naira to some women and widows in Sagamu area of the state.

Speaking at Sagamu town Hall, Mrs. Bamidele explained that the gesture was part of the efforts of government to cushion the effect of the fourteen days lockdown order.

The wife of the Ogun state governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Funmi Efuwape advised women in the state to comply with the governments’ directives of staying at home and maintain personal hygiene in a bid to contain the spread of covid-19.

Mrs. Bamidele said the gesture would be extended to other parts of the state, pointing out that the welfare of women and widows in the state remained important.

 Olusegun Folarin

Health

Makinde Advocates Strict Compliance to Basic Hygiene Practices

By Web News 807

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde wants residents of the state to obey rules and regulations guiding the prevention and spread of Coronavirus pandemic.

Governor Makinde who stated this during a phone-in segment of a Radio Programme in Ibadan clarified that he truly tested positive for coronavirus.

The governor said though he was in self-isolation but would still be working with the state’s task force on Covid-19 to contain the spread of the virus.

Governor Makinde said those who had contact with him have been asked to self-Isolate with a view to testing their sample. 

Governor Makinde said virology department of the University College Hospital, Ibadan is now fully operational for suspected victims to be monitored and managed.

He therefore urged residents of the state to imbibe hygienic practices to prevent the disease and promised that the Olodo infectious isolation center would finally be put in place before the end of this week.

Iyabo Adebisi

Foreign Health News

COVID19: Anger as Migrants Sprayed With Disinfectant In India

By Web News 906

An investigation has been launched after a group of migrant workers were filmed being doused in a “chemical solution” by Indian officials.

They are understood to be migrants who returned to the city of Bareilly, in the Northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

They are among millions who have returned to their home villages amidst a nationwide, three-week lockdown.

The move is supposed to stop the spread of coronavirus, but there are fears the returnees may spread the virus further.

The video, which has been viewed nearly 400,000 times after it was uploaded by a Times of India journalist – shows the group squatting on the ground while medical and fire department officials dressed in hazmat suits spray them with a “chemical solution”.

“Who are you trying to kill, Corona or humans? Migrant labourers and their families were forced to take bath in chemical solution upon their entry in Bareilly”.

Most of them are daily-wage workers who are now out of work. In the absence of money and jobs, they are desperate to reach their villages. Some found government-run buses to reach home and others just continued to walk.

BBC News

Economy

Commercial Banks Shut out Customers in Parts of Ibadan

By Web News 909

Some banks did not open for business today in lbadan the Oyo state capital throwing customers into confusion and panic.

Radio Nigeria observed that customers were sitting or standing around some Banks in Gbagi, Old lfe road, Mokola, and Dugbe areas of lbadan.

Customers expressed disappointment at the situation saying it would hinder them from buying all the essentials needed for the stay at home injunction.

The people called on the government to intervene to make life convenient for them.

Anthonia Akanji

Health

Covid-19: UCH Activity Slows Down

By Web News 740

The recent development where principal officers at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, and College of Medicine, University of Ibadan tested positive has again confirmed the fact that Covid-19 has no respect for anyone.

A visit to the hospital showed the premises looked like a shadow of itself as patients were very few.

Though the gate at both entrances of the university college hospital was widely opened, only a few patients with serious medical cases were being attended to.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, Head of UCH taskforce on covid-19, Dr. Ewam Eze noted that standard measures as recommended by the World Health Organization, WHO was maintained.

Dr. Eze stressed that only emergency cases were attended to, while patients with critical health conditions remained on admission.

He pointed out that there was no new case in the isolation centre while those officials who tested positive for covid-19 were in self-isolation and constantly being monitored.

A lady, Mrs. Damilola Sanni, whose child is currently on admission expressed displeasure with the arrangement at the hospital hoping that the situation would soon normalize.

A medical laboratory scientist at the hospital who preferred anonymity emphasized that strategies have been put in place to monitor social distancing as the laboratory remained opened.

However, the College of Medicine where medical students, nurses and others are being trained had been shut to curtail the spread of the pandemic.

Titilayo Kupoluyi

Health News

Tanzania Confirms First Coronavirus Death

By Web News 792

Tanzania’s Health ministry has announced the country’s first death from Covid-19, the respiratory disease caused by Corona virus.

The patient was a 49-year-old Tanzanian man who had other underlying health conditions.

The East Africa country has confirmed 18 cases to date, including one recovered patient.

Similarly Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi has called for calm after the country confirmed its first cases of coronavirus.

Health Minister Lems Kwape said three travelers, two of them from Thailand and the third one from the UK, tested positive for the virus.

President Masisi said his government had been preparing for the eventuality and had an action plan to keep people safe.

Botswana was among the few African countries yet to report coronavirus cases. Others include Lesotho, Comoros, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Burundi and São Tomé and Príncipe.

President Masisi urged citizens to follow safety measures that would be announced by the health authorities.

The government tweeted that the president would address the nation on Tuesday morning.

BBC News

Health

Covid-19: Suspected Cases Tests Negative in Ondo

By Web News 1362

All twelve suspected cases of covid-19 in Ondo State have tested negative.

The suspected cases included alleged case at Agadagba Obon in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of the State.

This was revealed during a meeting between Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and the state Inter-ministerial Committee on covid-19 in Akure the state capital.

The chairman of the committee and commissioner for health, Dr. Wahab Adegbenro said the state remained covid-19 free.

Meanwhile, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has ordered total closure of all markets across the state until further notice.

A statement by the state’s commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Donald Ojogo blames the new order on the refusal of some residents to stay at home.


The statement indicates that the total ban on all markets irrespective of any item takes effect from tomorrow until further notice.


The State government had earlier ordered partial closure of markets but excluded life-saving items such as food, water and medicines before the new order.



This is to further stem the spread of covid-19 pandemic.

Bukola Bardi/ Olorunferanmi Odofin



Health

Breaking: Seyi Makinde Tests Positive for Covid-19

By Web News 1374

Oyo state governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has tested positive for coronavirus.
He confirmed this via his twitter handle @seyiamakinde, according to the tweet:
“I just received my COVID-19 confirmation test result, it is POSITIVE. I am asymptomatic and will continue to self-isolate.

I have designated Prof Temitope Alonge, former Chief Medical Director of the University College, Ibadan, as the Head of COVID-19 Task Force while I recover fully. Please continue to comply with all the directives from the COVID-19 Task Force. Stay home, stay safe”.

@seyiamakinde

Health

Covid-19: Oyo LG Caretaker Chairmen Embark on Grassroots sensitization

By Web News 702

The Caretaker Chairmen in Oyo state have taken a step further in combating the deadly Corona virus disease ravaging the whole world by providing materials to prevent the spread of the virus in their local government area.

The sensitization programme was held in Akinyele, Ibarapa North and Atiba local government areas of the state.

The Caretaker chairmen distributed hand sanitizers, soaps and bowl to markets in their domains.

Distribution of these items was also extended to Okada garages for proper Hygiene.

In a remark, caretaker chairman, Ibarapa North Mr. Iliasu Shittu, while sensitizing the people of his local government advised them to abide by the rules and regulations guiding the prevention of the virus as directed by the government.

His counterpart from Atiba local government in Oyo, Mr. Ibrahim Akinkunmi expressed joy for the large turn-out of the people and commended the state government for its efforts at tackling covid-19 in the state.

They hailed the state government for Stay-at-home directive given to the people of the state to prevent the spread of covid-19 otherwise known as Corona virus.

Adebisi Iyabo

Health

Covid-19 Patient Discharged in Oyo

By Web News 646

The US returnee who tested positive to coronavirus in Oyo state has been released from the COVID-19 isolation centre.

The release of the patient was consequent upon the completion of his treatment at the Agbami Chest Hospital isolation centre, Ibadan.

The American returnee had initially tested negative only for the second test to read positive.

The index case had been on self-isolation at a private residence in Ibadan until he was transferred to the Isolation centre at Agbami, Jericho area of Ibadan on March 23.

A statement by the state’s Incident Manager on Covid-19 in the state, Dr Taiwo Ladipo notes that the index case was released after two consecutive negative tests.

The statement also adds that the confirmed case spent six days in the isolation centre and had two negative tests.

Adebisi Iyabo

News Analysis

Examining the Efforts of Ondo State Government at Preventing Coronavirus

By Web News 1752 Post a comment

Coronavirus, also known as Covid-19 is one disease that is currently ravaging the world with so many deaths recorded and new cases reported by the day.

Nigeria happens to be one of the countries of the world facing the challenge of coronavirus as it was imported into the country in February by an Italian national who has now recovered from the disease.

The entry of Covid-19 into Nigeria no doubt sent shivers down the spines of every Nigerian for the fact that it has no cure for now and that it is highly infectious, killing people by the day especially In Asia, Europe and America.

Since the emergence of this disease in Nigeria, the federal government has deployed all necessary measures to contain its spread while ensuring that victims get the best of medical care to prevent death from coronavirus.

Governors of states where confirmed cases of coronavirus have been announced have also put in place various safety measures to stem the tide of the viral disease.

It is noteworthy that even states where a single case of Covid-19 infection has not been recorded, are not leaving anything to chance in ensuring that the disease does not catch them unawares.

One of such states is Ondo, where the government wasted no time in announcing some safety measures towards preventing the entry of coronavirus into the state and also contain it in case of any eventuality. 

The first step was to embark massive media awareness campaign sensitizing people on the dangers of Coronavirus and the need to increase both environmental and personal hygiene especially regular hand washing with soap and running water to keep it away.

Another step being taken by the Ondo State Government against Covid-19 is the activation of its rapid response mechanism, mounting of surveillance on all border towns, ban on interstate travels, the closure of schools, markets, and worship centres.

Besides, the government has also directed workers on grade level one to twelve to work from home while Governor Akeredolu has also cancelled all official activities for two weeks, all in the bid to reduce the chance of contracting the disease.

Other safety measures are the ban on political gathering, social gathering and the convergence of more than fifty people at a time.

The government has also set up a task force to ensure total compliance with the shutting of markets, worship centres.

To cap it all, Governor Akeredolu directed all members of the state executive council to proceed to their local government areas to sensitise the people on the deadly virus.

An awareness video post by Governor Rotimi Akeredolu

These steps have no doubt helped Ondo State in keeping coronavirus away thus becoming the only state in the Southwest of Nigeria that has not recorded any confirmed case of Covid-19.

While the government, through the Ministries of Health and Information has promised to introduce more precautionary measures against the disease as the days go by, residents are also calling on the government to sustain the tempo to help Ondo state remain coronavirus-free.

Stakeholders believe that if this is done, more people will live beyond the pandemic.

Adebukola Bardi

Health

Breaking: President Buhari Declares Curfew in Lagos, FCT, Ogun

By Web News 1356

President Muhammadu Buhari has declared curfew in Lagos, Abuja and Ogun State .

According to the President the curfew was to contain the community transmission of covid-19 in the states where it is prevalent.

He said this during a nationwide broadcast on Sunday the 29th of March 2020.

“Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC, I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th March 2020.

This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two States.

All citizens in these areas are to stay in their homes. Travel to or from other states should be postponed. All businesses and offices within these locations should be fully closed during this period.

The Governors of Lagos and Ogun States, as well as the Minister of the FCT, have been notified. Furthermore, heads of security and intelligence agencies have also been briefed.

We will use this containment period to identify, trace and isolate all individuals that have come into contact with confirmed cases. We will ensure the treatment of confirmed cases while restricting further spread to other States.

This order does not apply to hospitals and all related medical establishments as well as organizations in health care-related manufacturing and distribution.
Furthermore, Commercial establishments such as;

a. Food processing, distribution and Retail companies;

b. Petroleum distribution and retail entities,

c. Power generation, transmission and distribution companies; and

d. Private security companies are also exempted.


Although these establishments are exempted, access will be restricted and monitored. 

Workers in telecommunication companies, broadcasters, print and electronic media staff who can prove they are unable to work from home are also exempted”.

President Muhammadu Buhari

29th March 2020

Health

Covid-19: President Muhammadu Buhari’s Speech

By Web News 1490

“Fellow Nigerians,
From the first signs that Coronavirus, or covid-19 was turning into an epidemic and was officially declared a world-wide emergency, the Federal Government started planning preventive, containment and curative measures in the event the disease hits Nigeria.
By the morning of March 29th, 2020, the total confirmed cases within Nigeria had risen to ninety-seven.
As of today, COVID-19 has no cure. Scientists around the world are working very hard to develop a vaccine.
We are in touch with these institutions as they work towards a solution that will be certified by international and local medical authorities within the shortest possible time.

For now, the best and most efficient way to avoid getting infected is through regular hygienic and sanitary practices as well as social distancing.
As individuals, we remain the greatest weapon to fight this pandemic.
By washing our hands regularly with clean water and soap, disinfecting frequently used surfaces and areas, coughing into a tissue or elbow and strictly adhering to infection prevention control measures in health facilities, we can contain this virus.
Since the outbreak was reported in China, our Government has been monitoring the situation closely and studying the various responses adopted by other countries.
Indeed, the Director General of the NCDC was one of ten global health leaders invited by the World Health Organisation to visit China and understudy their response approach.

I am personally very proud of Dr Ihekweazu for doing this on behalf of all Nigerians.
Since his return, the NCDC has been implementing numerous strategies and programs in Nigeria to ensure that the adverse impact of this virus on our country is minimized.
We ask all Nigerians to support the work the Federal Ministry of Health and NCDC are doing, led by the Presidential Task Force.
Although we have adopted strategies used globally, our implementation programs have been tailored to reflect our local realities.
In Nigeria, we are taking a two-step approach.
First, to protect the lives of our fellow Nigerians and residents living here, and second, to preserve the livelihoods of workers and business owners to ensure their families get through this very difficult time in dignity and with hope and peace of mind.
To date, we have introduced healthcare measures, border security, fiscal and monetary policies in our response. We shall continue to do so as the situation unfolds.
Some of these measures will surely cause major inconveniences to many citizens. But these are sacrifices we should all be willing and ready to make for the greater good of our country.
In Nigeria’s fight against covid-19, there is no such thing as an overreaction or an under reaction. It is all about the right reaction by the right agencies and trained experts.
Accordingly, as a Government, we will continue to rely on guidance of our medical professionals and experts at the Ministry of Health, NCDC and other relevant agencies through this difficult time.
I therefore urge all citizens to adhere to their guidelines as they are released from time to time.
As we are all aware, Lagos and Abuja have the majority of confirmed cases in Nigeria. Our focus therefore remains to urgently and drastically contain these cases, and to support other states and regions in the best way we can.
This is why we provided an initial intervention of fifteen billion Naira (N15 Billion) to support the national response as we fight to contain and control the spread.
We also created a Presidential Task Force (PTF) to develop a workable National Response Strategy that is being reviewed on a daily basis as the requirements change. This strategy takes international best practices but adopts them to suit our unique local circumstances.
Our goal is to ensure all States have the right support and manpower to respond immediately.
So far, in Lagos and Abuja, we have recruited hundreds of adhoc staff to man our call centers and support our tracing and testing efforts.
I also requested, through the Nigeria Governors Forum, for all State Governments to nominate Doctors and Nurses who will be trained by the NCDC and Lagos State Government on tactical and operational response to the virus in case it spreads to other states.
This training will also include medical representatives from our armed forces, paramilitary and security and intelligence agencies.
As a nation, our response must be guided, systematic and professional. There is a need for consistency across the nation. All inconsistencies in policy guidelines between Federal and State agencies will be eliminated.
As I mentioned earlier, as at this morning we had ninety-seven confirmed cases. Majority of these are in Lagos and Abuja. All the confirmed cases are getting the necessary medical care.
Our agencies are currently working hard to identify cases and people these patients have been in contact with.
The few confirmed cases outside Lagos and Abuja are linked to persons who have travelled from these centres.
We are therefore working to ensure such inter state and intercity movements are restricted to prevent further spread.
Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC, I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th March 2020.
This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two States.
All citizens in these areas are to stay in their homes. Travel to or from other states should be postponed. All businesses and offices within these locations should be fully closed during this period.
The Governors of Lagos and Ogun States as well as the Minister of the FCT have been notified. Furthermore, heads of security and intelligence agencies have also been briefed.
We will use this containment period to identify, trace and isolate all individuals that have come into contact with confirmed cases. We will ensure the treatment of confirmed cases while restricting further spread to other States.
This order does not apply to hospitals and all related medical establishments as well as organizations in health care related manufacturing and distribution.
Furthermore, commercial establishments such as;

a. food processing, distribution and retail companies;

b. petroleum distribution and retail entities,

c. power generation, transmission and distribution companies; and

d. private security companies

are also exempted.
Although these establishments are exempted, access will be restricted and monitored.
Workers in telecommunication companies, broadcasters, print and electronic media staff who can prove they are unable to work from home are also exempted.
All seaports in Lagos shall remain operational in accordance with the guidelines I issued earlier. Vehicles and drivers conveying essential cargoes from these Ports to other parts of the country will be screened thoroughly before departure by the Ports Health Authority.
Furthermore, all vehicles conveying food and other essential humanitarian items into these locations from other parts of the country will also be screened thoroughly before they are allowed to enter these restricted areas.
Accordingly, the Hon. Minister of Health is hereby directed to redeploy all Port Health Authority employees previously stationed in the Lagos and Abuja Airports to key roads that serve as entry and exit points to these restricted zones.
Movements of all passenger aircraft, both commercial and private jets, are hereby suspended. Special permits will be issued on a needs basis.
We are fully aware that such measures will cause much hardship and inconvenience to many citizens. But this is a matter of life and death, if we look at the dreadful daily toll of deaths in Italy, France and Spain.
However, we must all see this as our national and patriotic duty to control and contain the spread of this virus.
I will therefore ask all of us affected by this order to put aside our personal comfort to safeguard ourselves and fellow human beings. This common enemy can only be controlled if we all come together and obey scientific and medical advice.
As we remain ready to enforce these measures, we should see this as our individual contribution in the war against covid-19.
Many other countries have taken far stricter measures in a bid to control the spread of the virus with positive results.
For residents of satellite and commuter towns and communities around Lagos and Abuja whose livelihoods will surely be affected by some of these restrictive measures, we shall deploy relief materials to ease their pains in the coming weeks.
Furthermore, although schools are closed, I have instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development to work with State Governments in developing a strategy on how to sustain the school feeding program during this period without compromising our social distancing policies. The Minister will be contacting the affected States and agree on detailed next steps.
Furthermore, I have directed that a three-month repayment moratorium for all TraderMoni, MarketMoni and FarmerMoni loans be implemented with immediate effect.
I have also directed that a similar moratorium be given to all Federal Government funded loans issued by the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and the Nigeria Export Import Bank.
For on-lending facilities using capital from international and multilateral development partners, I have directed our development financial institutions to engage these development partners and negotiate concessions to ease the pains of the borrowers.
For the most vulnerable in our society, I have directed that the conditional cash transfers for the next two months be paid immediately. Our Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) will also receive two months of food rations in the coming weeks.
We also call on all Nigerians to take personal responsibility to support those who are vulnerable within their communities, helping them with whatever they may need.
As we all pray for the best possible outcome, we shall continue planning for all eventualities.
This is why I directed that all Federal Government Stadiums, Pilgrims camps and other facilities be converted to isolation centers and makeshift hospitals.
My fellow Nigerians, as a Government, we will avail all necessary resources to support the response and recovery. We remain committed to do whatever it takes to confront covid-19 in our country.
We are very grateful to see the emerging support of the private sector and individuals to the response as well as our development partners.
We are very grateful to see the emerging support of the private sector and individuals to the response as well as our development partners.
At this point, I will ask that all contributions and donations be coordinated and centralized to ensure efficient and impactful spending.
The Presidential Task Force remains the central coordinating body on the covid-19 response.
I want to assure you all that Ministries, Departments and Agencies with a role to play in the outbreak response are working hard to bring this virus under control.
Every nation in the world is challenged at this time. But we have seen countries where citizens have come together to reduce the spread of the virus.
I will therefore implore you again to strictly comply with the guidelines issued and also do your bit to support Government and the most vulnerable in your communities.
I will take this opportunity to thank all our public health workforce, healthcare workers, Port Health authorities and other essential staff on the frontlines of the response for their dedication and commitment. You are true heroes.
I thank you all for listening. May God continue to bless and protect us all”.

President Muhammadu Buhari

29th March 2020

Health

Easy and Cheap Way of Keeping COVID-19 Away

By Web News 817

Nigeria, like about 159 other countries, is facing the greatest health challenge the world has ever had. But unlike many other countries, ordinary health care provisions are almost absent.

This is worsened by selfishness and heartlessness of some of the citizens who will always capitalize on such crises situation to exploit others. One of these, at this period, is the sudden astronomic rise in prices of materials required for mitigation and prevention of the novel coronavirus called SARS-COV-2 which causes coronavirus disease popularly referred to as COVID-19.

These materials include hand sanitizer, nose masks, gloves disinfectants etc. It is getting to a stage in which these materials are no longer within the reach of many. This write up will, therefore, attempt an explanation of easy and cheap ways of preventing the virus and other related issues.

1. USE OF SOAP IN PLACE OF HAND SANITIZER 

Viruses are self-assembled nanoparticles with double layers of the lipid (fat). A virus has three components: DNA or RNA, encased by protein plus an outer layer of lipid or fat. Therefore when you utilize any soap with water, as used in washing off oils from the body, It dissolves the fatty layer that coats the virus. The hands must be washed properly for about 30 seconds (half a minute).This is the most effective way of preventing the transmission of COVID-19. It is effective in killing off viruses you may have come into contact with.

The use of hand sanitizers is generally misunderstood. There are different types of sanitizers and they are mainly to protect against germs such as bacteria and other microorganisms but not primarily against viruses. They can be water-based or alcohol-based. The ones that are useful against viruses are those having alcohol solvents. The functional ingredient has no effect on viruses but the alcohol solvent dissolved the lipid bilayer to disintegrate the virus. This is why alcohol-based hand sanitizers are useful. 

2. THE USE OF GLOVES

It will interest you to know that gloves have a greater tendency of assisting in the transmission of COVID-19 if not properly handled. Since the virus does not usually enter the body through the skin, the glove does nothing in protecting the hands but the outer part of the glove can actually harbour the virus which can then be transmitted through the mouth, nose or eyes if not protected with a mask. Care should also be taken in removing the gloves. They are removed by folding the edge and pulling gently in a way that the outer part goes inside while the outer part goes inside. 

3. USE OF FACE MASKS

Perhaps the most important path breaker in COVID-19 transmission is the use of face masks. Two major masks are used, namely; surgical mask and a more effective but not commonly available N95 respirator. I will dwell more on the former. The common surgical mask has three layers; the light green layer which is supposed to be the outer layer which is a moisture repellent, the inner layer which is the white part touching the face made of moisture absorbant which absorbs moisture from the breath and the middle layer that prevents germs. A surgical mask should be properly worn to cover the mouth, nose and the chin. It is not re-useable and must be removed and disposed of of properly without touching any of the three parts. 

Today various masks are being made by various people to make quick money, while they can offer some protection at the first use, they can become a source of infection subsequently. If it is used to protect against dust, it must be regularly washed and disinfected. 

The usefulness of face mask in COVID-19 transmission is in respect of preventing the virus in getting to the mouth and nose. And this can be largely achieved if properly done.

4. KEEPING IT WARM

In this part of the world,  one of the reasons why the elites, apart from those coming back from overseas, have been major victims and sources of transmission is the habit of moving from air-conditioned houses into air-conditioned cars and into air-conditioned offices. These conditions keep the viruses in fabrics, body and material surfaces intact. But if the viruses are exposed to high atmospheric temperatures of over 27°C, the lipid layers are likely to become melted thereby leading to disintegration. So the advice is simple; keep it warm; shower with warm water, drink warm water and enjoy some warmth in the sun. We are luckier in the hot regions of the world. 

CONCLUSION

COVID-19 infection is not a death warrant. Indeed the average death rate is less than 4%. This is even more prevalent only amongst older individuals and people with underlying health conditions. Very many people, after proper handling, are recovering. Infected people have both moral and religious responsibilities to ensure further transmission ends with them. So we should not be given to too much panic. 

The disease easily spreads through virus exhales, coughs and sneezes. The common symptoms include fatigue, dry cough,  fever and shortness of breath and pneumonia. Other less frequent symptoms are diarrhoea, aches and pains, nasal congestion,  runny nose and sore throat. 

Finally, viruses including SARS-COV-2 are not living organisms and are therefore weak outside the body. They become dangerous only when they are allowed to enter and invade body tissues. So play safe, ensure social distancing, maintain proper hygiene and stay at home. 

Dr. Rasheed Adekunle Fasasi is an independent scholar of international reputation with a PhD in science education from the University of Ibadan. He lives in Ibadan. Email: [email protected]

Rilwan Fasasi

News

Obasanjo Donates Former Residence for Covid-19 Isolation Centre

By Web News 678

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has donated his former residence at the Presidential Hilltop, Abeokuta, Ogun State for use as Isolation centre for victims of the dreaded Coronavirus disease.

Chief Obasanjo said the thirty two room facility has been handed over to the Ogun state government for immediate take over.

A statement by thehe Special Assistant on Media to the former president, Mr. Kehinde Akinyemi said that the former President was concerned about the pandemic urged those who can also assist in this situation to do so.

The facility located off the Presidential Boulevard, Oke Sari, and Abeokuta has each of the thirty two rooms en suite, with a standby generator. 

Health

Covid-19: Ogun Task Force Disperse Muslim Faithful

By Web News 839

The Ogun State enforcement task force on non-gathering for Prevention of covid-19 has dispersed some residents of Abeokuta for violation of the state government order against gatherings above twenty persons and above.

More than twenty-five Muslim faithful had converged on Najomo Mosques at car wash Area in Adatan to observe the jumat prayers against the warnings of the league of Imams and Alfas and the state Government to avoid such gathering.

The Imam of the Mosque who is also a lawyer, Alhaji Moshood Taiwo told the task force that they were only fifteen in the mosque when he commenced sermon.

The Wakheel of Muslims in Yorubaland, Edo and Delta State, Alhaji Iskeel Lawal who was with the enforcement team described the Imam’s action as clear violation of the law and the Islamic faith.

The commander of the task force, Chief Superintendent of Police, Mr. Toyin Afolaogun, after dispersing the congregation said no stone would be left unturned to ensure the health of the public is secured.

Wale Oloukun

Health

Oyo Takes Steps to Prevent Community Transmission of Coronavirus

By Web News 756

Oyo State Government is intensifying efforts to ensure that there is no community transmission of coronavirus in the state.
Incidence Manager for Oyo State Emergency Operation Centre, Dr Taiwo Ladipo stated this in an interview with Radio Nigeria while reacting to the 2 new positive cases of coronavirus in the state.
He said so far all the 3 cases are returnees from overseas as the target of the government was to make sure that there were no community transmission of the virus.
Dr Ladipo said the 3 victims were at the isolation centre receiving treatment and was optimistic that they would soon get better.
He confirmed that a lot of people were at home undergoing self isolation as the government was following them while relevant tests were being carried out on them.
The Incident Manager said the Information about most of those in self isolation were gotten through communities and that prompted adding them to the surveillance system of government.
He added that the government was not considering shutting of markets for now as that would create panic but precautionary measures would henceforth be put in such places to prevent the spread of the virus.

Ridwan Fasasi

Health

Covid-19: Oyo Govt. Imposes Dusk to Dawn Curfew

By Web News 1029

Oyo state Governor,Engineer Seyi Makinde has imposed a dusk to dawn curfew from seven o’clock in the evening to six o’clock in the morning following two new confirmed cases of Covid -19 in the state by the Nigeria Center for Disease Control.
Governor Makinde has also directed that no gatherings of more than ten people should be held anywhere in Oyo State while all markets would be closed except those selling perishable food items.
This is contained in Governor Makinde’s verified social media accounts.
According to the governor, inter-state transportation in and out of the state would be suspended except vehicles carrying food items, medical, pharmaceutical and petroleum products from this Sunday night,March 29th.
The governor who is also the head of the Task Force Covid- 19 in the state said 84 Persons of Interest have been identified pointing out that contact tracing and collection of samples had commenced.
He stated that the index case remained stable and under observation in the isolation unit at Agbami Chest Centre, Jericho,Ibadan.

Adebisi Iyabo

Security

Police to Begin Enforcement of Ondo Government Orders

By Web News 666

Police in Ondo State is to begin the enforcement government’s orders to contain the spread of Covid-19 in the state.

The Police Commissioner, Mr Undie Adie made this known during a joint briefing with Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu in Akure the state capital.

Mr Undie expressed worry that some residents were still flouting government directives put in place to check the deadly virus.

The commissioner reemphasized that only those selling medicine, water and food items would be allowed to continue to render such services.

Earlier, Governor Akeredolu reaffirmed the ban on markets, shops, bars, clubs as well as religious and social gatherings.

The governor reiterated the administration’s resolve to try as much as possible to keep the state free of Covid-19.

Olorunferanmi Odofin

Foreign

Breaking: UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson Tests Positive for Covid-19

By Web News 747

United Kingdom Prime Minister, Mr Boris Johnson has gone into self-isolation after confirming that he has tested positive with the coronavirus.

Mr Johnson revealed this in a tweet via his handle @BorisJohnson, with this message, “Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus. I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government’s response via video-conference as we fight this virus. Together we will beat this. #StayHomeSaveLives“

Politics

ODIEC Postpones LG Elections Indefinitely

By Web News 911

The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission, ODIEC, has postponed the April 18 local government election indefinitely.

The postponement according to the Chairman of the commission, Professor Yomi Dinakin at a press briefing was due to the coronavirus, COVID-19 outbreak in the country and the need to align with the situation.

Professor Dinakin explained that the ten participating political parties in the council poll and the commission had agreed at a meeting on the decision of the postponement.

The ODIEC Chairman said though the commission had put in place adequate measures for the smooth conduct of the election but has to align with the federal and state government’s decision on the safety of Nigerians.

Professor Dinakin noted that the commission while awaiting further government directives would meet with stakeholders on April 9th on any other development.

He also attributed the new development to the fact that parties could not campaign and the possibility of controlling the crowds in relation to social distancing.

Olumide Abudu

Health

NCDC DG Appeals for Nigerians’ Support on Ending Covid-19

By Web News 778

Director-General, Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu says the centre is working very hard to scale up its testing capacity to bring in more people for clinical management.

Dr Ihekweazu stated this while featuring on a live television programme.

The NCDC DG noted that the centre was also not relenting in its sensitization campaigns across the country to ensure that every Nigerian was aware of the virus and the need to take necessary precautionary measures.

Dr Ihekweazu stressed that, as much as the government was making concerted efforts at containing Covid-19, defeating the virus depended more on individuals.

The NCDC Director General, therefore, called on Nigerians to continue to cooperate with the centre and government to contain the spread of Covid-19.

News Analysis

Impact of Coronavirus Pandemic on Sports

By Web News 1045

As the spread of Covid-19, also known as Coronavirus pandemic escalates across the world, a number of sports organisations have altered their schedules in response to the pandemic.

Indeed, in the past few weeks, the inevitable impact of the coronavirus on the sports industry has landed with a stunning blow. 

While most sports associations have suspended their nation’s leagues, some clubs were compelled to play without spectators.

In the longer term, summer events like the UEFA’s euro 2020 and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the Paralympics have been postponed till next year.

Also, the bi-annual Nigerian National Sports Festival, NSF, billed for Edo State was postponed indefinitely, few days to its commencement. 

According to the World Health Organisation, W.H.O., over five hundred thousand worldwide cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed, while over fourteen thousand people have died so far.

Among the dead are two Spanish sports journalists.

A fifty-nine year old José María Candela, who worked for Radio Nacional De España (RNE) and Seventy-Eight year old director general, Motorpoint Networks Editores, Tomás Díaz-Valdés, both died of Covid-19 last Friday.

Few sportsmen have tested positive, while many of them are currently in self-isolation.

Sports events are no longer a simple diversion to brighten up midweek nights and weekends, but a dangerous public space.

For the first time since World War two, the billion dollars industry is suspended, affecting athletes, clubs, leagues, tournaments, organizations and thousands of people whose livelihood depends on sports, including sports journalists. 

No doubt, sports as a unifying factor, has suffered greatly due to the outbreak of Covid-19 and if this lingers on, it could result in job cuts.

Sports businesses would be affected due to the lockdown, many sports organisations might not be able to pay salaries of staff, while many stakeholders in the world of sports will likely be confronted with issues relating to contracts, insurance, employment, health and safety, sales, and operations.  

Also, the livelihood of thousands of sports journalists has gone as most sports media outfits could not meet their financial obligations, of course, they are not alone.

Though initial statements from leagues and national associations have set early next month as a target for resumption, however, health experts forecast the pandemic raging for a further three or even four months.

Sports’ suspension due to the Covid-19 outbreak may also mean a last full-stop for many sports publications, tipping even more colleagues into the abyss.

While it is commendable that some sportsmen are contributing to the financial kitty in the fight against Covid-19, it is imperative to know that the preservation of human lives is the most important thing right now.

Olaolu Fawole

Health

Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force Update

By Web News 819
  1. The Oyo State civil service will shut down for two weeks from, Friday, March 27, 2020. Only workers rendering essential services will be required to report for duty.
  2. We still have one confirmed case of coronavirus in Oyo State, the Bodija case, who is receiving treatment at the isolation centre – Agbami Chest Centre, Jericho, Ibadan.
  3. Additional numbers have been added to the Emergency Operations Centre’s Helplines. Please call these numbers for any issue related to Coronavirus; 08095394000 / 08095963000 / 08078288999 / 08078288800
  4. The returnee from the USA in Oluyole Local Government Area is still asymptomatic. She has completed her 14-day self-isolation period (March 8-22).
  5. New guidelines on public transportation have been issued by the Ministry of Public Works, Infrastructure and Transportation to ensure proper hygienic standards and social distancing.
    All transport operators and park managers are to provide at the entrance to their respective parks/garages, hand washing facilities with soap and running water. They are to provide alcohol-based sanitizers in their vehicles for the use of drivers, conductors and passengers.
    Standing is prohibited in public mass transit buses and there must be a minimum of one seat interval between passengers. Tricycles are limited to three passengers and commercial motorcycles are limited to one passenger only.
  6. Enlightenment campaigns on Coronavirus in English and Yoruba have commenced in the media. Street to street public announcements using megaphones have commenced in the rural areas.
  7. We have received reports of a few private schools flouting the directive for closure of schools. A task force from SUBEB, TESCOM and the Ministry of Education have been authorised to take appropriate action against any school flouting this directive. Any school acting in breach of the directive can be reported by calling the Emergency Operations Centre Helplines on 08095394000 / 08095963000 / 08078288999 / 08078288800.
  8. Ministry of Health officials met with religious leaders to ensure compliance with the directive that gatherings are limited to a maximum of 30 persons. They also met with stakeholders in the hospitality industry to ensure compliance with the directive that nightclubs remain closed.