Hyacinth Chinweuba
The Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano on Wednesday said that with the first post treatment test of the Covid-19 Index Case in Anambra State returning negative more proactive measures would be taken to stop further spread in the state.
In a broadcast to the people, Obiano said, “Today, I am delighted to tell you that the second test on our Index Case has also returned negative. Following the NCDC protocol on Covid-19, therefore, I have asked the Commissioner of Health to discharge him from our Protective Care Center. We have also made some arrangements to decontaminate his home to ensure that there is no further incident.”
Continuing Obiano said, “Following the good news we have received on our Index Case, we have submitted the samples of the 36 remaining people that had direct contact with him for testing. This is to ensure that we do not leave any loopholes in our fight against this pandemic. I will keep you posted on the outcome of the tests once the results are out.”
Going forward the governor said the danger is not over yet and to ensure government firmly hold the situation down all boundaries with neighbouring states would remain completely closed and people on essential services and haulage trucks with essential commodities are allowed passage after a stringent check and confirmation by the security personnel at the boundaries.
“From today onwards, it has become compulsory to wear a face mask in Anambra State. Anyone who is seen outside his home without a face mask shall be guilty of breaking the Anambra State Protocol on Covid-19.
This principle shall be enforced by all Traditional rulers, Religious Leaders, the Presidents General, Women Leaders, Market Association Leaders, Youth Association Leaders and every community leader that has influence on our people. We encourage our people to make their own masks to ensure availability of masks. However, polyester and polythene materials must not be used in making masks.
“Food markets in Anambra State are to open only on Tuesdays and Fridays. Traders and customers in these markets must always maintain the principles of Social Distancing during the transaction process.
“The wholesale medical drug market (Ndi Ogbo Ogwu) in Onitsha is permitted to open only on Tuesdays and Fridays. Please note that any stores/shops located in the markets not dealing on food items or medical drugs remain closed. The security agents have been directed to ensure a rigorous enforcement.
“Transport operators, banks and other businesses are expected to assist in the enforcement of Mask Wearing by insisting that their customers wear a mask as a pre-condition for service.
All intercity/intra-community transits remain closed, All motor parks in the State remain closed.
“We also encourage our people to maintain the globally accepted Covid-19 protocol of regular hand-washing, regular use of hand-sanitizers and other social-distancing rules that I have repeatedly communicated in my previous addresses.
Ndi Anambra are advised to contact the Anambra State Public Health Emergency Operation Center immediately (PHEOC) once they feel unwell. The PHEOC numbers are 09034728047. 08117567363, 09034668319, 08163594310, 08145434416. WhatsApp: 09033605959. SMS: 09074285546 ” he said.