The Oyo state Governor, Seyi Makinde in a statement on Thursday has responded to the argument that bore out of the political rally that took place in the state despite the spread of coronavirus.
Seyi Makinde in his statement said the rally took place based on the information they had. He however added that it shouldn’t have happened.
He said, “I have received your complaints about the rally that was held yesterday, and I feel obligated to state in clear terms that we acted based on the information we had at that time. In retrospect, it should not have happened and I take responsibility for that lapse in judgement.
On assuming office on May 29, 2019, I swore an oath to serve and protect you, I want to assure you that our administration is doing everything in our power and working with the agencies of the Federal Government, to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of this virus.
I urge members of the public to not give in to any form of panic. As a people, we can take several measures to beat this virus.
It has been shown that maintaining proper hygiene through frequent washing of the hands, scrubbing for 20 seconds with soap and water, and the use of hand sanitizers that are 90% alcohol based, is a key way to prevent the spread of this disease.
I implore all citizens to make these practices a routine and a priority. Social distancing is also highly encouraged. Therefore, as at this moment, the Oyo State Government is doing the following:
Setting up the Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force led by me. This task force will be holding its first meeting tomorrow, Friday, March 20, 2020. Immediately after the meeting, I will hold a press conference and update you on all decisions reached and so far, implemented.
The Free Health Mission which was launched on Monday, March 16, 2020, will continue. The mission will be used as a vehicle for disseminating information about Coronavirus prevention and control.
However, anyone experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 such as dry cough, fever, nausea, severe headaches, difficulty breathing & tiredness should please, isolate themselves & call the following Ministry of Health helplines: 08038210122/ 08023229267/ 08073431342.
Once again, I urge all citizens of Oyo State to remain calm and observe all preventive measures announced by the State and Federal Ministries of Health and their agencies. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. God bless Oyo State.”