Architect Frank Evbuomwan , Managing Director of Edo State Geographical Information Service (EDOGIS), has advocated for more community awareness to stem the spread of the novel Coronavirus disease pandemic in Nigeria.

Evbuomwan made the call when he distributed palliatives to cushion the effect of Covid-19 pandemic to communities in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo.

Represented by the Vice Chairman, of the council, Mr Fred Aimienwanwu, the EdoGIS boss said the call for more community awareness became necessary because of the increase in the number of affected persons, especially at the community levels across the country.

The Edo GIS boss noted that though enough sensitisation have been carried out on how to prevent the spread of the disease, but stressed that many Nigerians still believe that the virus is not real.

According to him, "While many believe that the disease is being exaggerated, others sees it from the angle of politics; a means to make money by politicians".

"They have chosen to ignore the fact that some prominent personalities have died as a result of the disease; while many developed countries of the world such as America and UK, have suffered untold fatalities due to the effect of the pandemic.

"I think we need to do more of sensitisation and the danger of non adherance to the rules to prevent he spread of the virus in the country as spelt out by the government. There can never be too much of enlightenment on this matter."

In the distribution of the palliatives on behalf of the State Governor, Evbuomwan urged the people to remain hopeful as government would from time to time wheel out other measures to alleviate their suffering.

Evbuomwan urged the beneficiaries to use the items judiciously and adhere to the laid down rules such as wearing of face masks in public, washing hands regularly, keeping social distance and keeping their environment clean.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Efionayi Ihenegbe, who commended the Governor for providing the palliatives, also appreciated the Managing Director of Edo GIS for making sure the items got to those who really needed them at a time when some others chose to divert or keep such palliatives to themselves.

Items distributed included over 100 bags of rice, cartons of vegetable oil, Spaghetti, Macaroni, malt drinks, bottled water and among others.