https://www.echotitbits.com/coronavirus-afenifere-kicks-against-akeredolu-allowing-easter-service/

Coronavirus: Afenifere kicks against Akeredolu allowing Easter Service
By Tobiloba Kolawole -April 9, 202007


Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu (File Photo).
Afenifere, a pan Yoruba socio-cultural group has kicked against the decision of the Governor Rotimi Akerodolu to approve the conduct of Easter services by members of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Ondo State.

The group on Thursday 4th April 2020 made known its displeasure about the governor’s approval for Easter gatherings amidst the ravaging and deadly coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement released by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Yinka Odumakin, the group which consists of notable Yoruba elder statesmen condemned the go-ahead for Easter celebration urging that “Akeredolu must resist Easter blackmail”.

The statement reads: “It has come to our attention that Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu has approved the conduct of Easter Service in Ondo State churches after a meeting with Ondo State CAN.

Afenifere sees this as succumbing to blackmail from religious leaders who should know better.”

Odumakin in the statement knocked religious leaders for acting in a manner that is capable of putting the health of the people of Ondo State in jeopardy.

“We are of the view that the religious leaders on their own should have cancelled Easter Service on their own at a time that even the Pope is holding online service on palm Sunday”, he said.

The group said it is calling on Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to lead the religious leaders rather than allow them to mislead him.

Afenifere advised governor Akeredolu to rethink his decision and also enjoined all Christians in the state to demand that Easter should be celebrated in individual homes for their personal safety and to get through the ravaging pandemic alive.

Ondo State Government had on Wednesday issued a statement signed by the Commissioner for information, Donald Ojogo, stating that permission was given to churches to hold Easter service under specific conditions.

The Commissioner had stated that “Government had graciously granted a special relief to enable Christians celebrate Easter Sunday, being one of the most important annual celebrations of the Church. That is the true position; more so that the word ‘restriction’ advisedly applied to provide the caveat for this special concession in line with crowd control regulations.

“For emphasis, there will be no Easter Retreat (Good Friday Programmes) or the Jumat service gatherings on Friday or ‘Gallilee’ on Monday. The ban on all social, political and religious gatherings continues afterwards, until further notice,” Ojogo said.

Echotitbits recalls that on Wednesday, Nigerians were miffed to a similar decision by the Aminu Bello Masari led Government to lift ban on gatherings for Muslims to attend Jumat Service this Friday.

Among guidelines recommended by experts, including the World Health Organization (WHO) to tackle the spread of COVID-19 was social distancing including the suspension of all gatherings.

https://www.echotitbits.com/controversy-odumakin-insists-fsars-arrested-olakunrins-killers-no-arrest-made-police/

Controversy: Odumakin insists FSARS arrested Olakunrin’s killers; No arrest made – Police
By Tobiloba Kolawole -April 9, 2020012


Late Funke Olakunrin, daughter of Pa Fasoranti; Yinka Odumakin, Afenifere spokesman.
The controversy surrounding the arrest of suspected killers of Mrs Funke Olakunrin, daughter of Afenifere leader, Pa Fasoranti might not be over yet.

Yinka Odumakin, who is Afenifere’s spokesperson on Wednesday, confirmed to echotitbits that the Federal Special Anti Robbery Squad (FSARS) indeed arrested suspects connected to the July 2019 murder of Funke Olakunrin.

On how he (Odumakin) knew about the said arrest, the Afenifere spokesman noted that “We were worried for the husband until last Saturday when the Commander of Federal SARS in Ondo came to him to break the news that they have arrested four suspected killers.

“It was Federal SARS that arrested the killers. They were taken to Police Command at Ondo town before they were moved out of Ondo state but I will not want to mention where they are now.

“They also arrested the driver to Funke Olakunrin just two days ago (Monday).The regular Police Command as I said have been totally irresponsible. The way they are behaving over this matter is enough to make us lose confidence in the police forever”, Odumakin said.

He berated the Police saying “if the Police Command in Ondo is yet to know that the Federal SARS arrested these people then it is a shame”

Odumakin confirmed that it is true that the Police in Ondo did not arrest the alleged killers of Olakunrin but accused the command of negligence.

In his response to echotitbits, Odumakin accused the regular police command and its state SARS formation in Ondo of doing nothing on the case. He made it clear that “It was the Federal SARS that I was talking about, and as I am talking to you now, they are interrogating the suspects.”

In a case like this it is expected that as a matter of procedure that certain steps be made in the process of unraveling the identities of the killers. But according to Odumakin the Ondo State Police Commissioner is incompetent and showed no seriousness in investigating the case.

“The car in which Funke Olakunrin was killed, that is the most glaring evidence at the scene of crime, that car was released to the family in few hours. We asked, have you done forensic on this car, they said no. I called Frank Mba Police Headquarters PRO that was when they returned to pick the car for forensics”

He narrated further that the Police was not ready to conduct an autopsy but retuned for the corpse two days before burial only when he (Odumakin) called Frank Mba, Force Public Relations Officer the second time.

“They have not even once in 9 months visited Pa Fasoranti to even say we are investigating. They didn’t come to papa to give him briefing. The man is in agony, he was so sad, he couldn’t sleep at night, to eat was a problem”, Odumakin noted.



On whether there might be connivance between some officers of the Ondo State Police Command and the driver to the late Olakunrin, Odumakin said, “I will not want to prejudice FSARS investigation. They are doing their job I just want them to do it professionally and come out with their report.

While Odumakin commended the effort of the FSARS for a job the regular police in Ondo State failed to do according to him, he had an advice for the Police Public Relations Officer in the state.“ That PRO called me yesterday (Tuesday) and I told him he should not open his mouth on this matter again and stop embarrassing themselves.”

However, the Police Command in Ondo State has maintained that no arrest in connection to the killing of Funke Olakunrin was made.

In a short whatsapp response sent to echotitbits, the Public Relations Officer for the Police command in Ondo State, Tee-leo Ikoro reiterated that “first, there was no arrest. It was a misinterpretation of the favour FSARS needed from Pa Fashonranti. And to say the Command is not doing anything to ensure arrest of culprits is not true”.

The deceased Funke Olakunrin was murdered in July 2019 when heavily armed men ambushed her and fired at her vehicle between Kajola and Ore along Ondo-Ore road. Olakunrin, who was with a family member, her maid and two other men at the time of the incidence was badly hit by bullets and later died at the hospital.

https://www.echotitbits.com/fire-guts-office-of-the-accountant-general-of-the-federation-watch-video/

Fire guts Office of the Accountant General of the Federation – watch video!
By echotitbits -April 8, 202009


Treasury House Building, FCT, Abuja
The Treasury House building which has the Accountant General of the Federation’s (AGF) office was on fire this morning, Wednesday 8, 2020.

The source of the fire remains unknown for now but workers in the complex as at the time the fire broke out said it started at about 10:25am from the fourth floor where the office of the Assistant Director, Capital is located.

In a video circulating online, an unidentified man was heard lamenting that “the Treasury House is on fire and the Nigerian government can’t do anything about it.

The man added that “oh my goodness our national resources is going”.

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By the time men of the Federal Fire Service arrived, the fire had spread to the building which houses the office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

In a tweet posted at exactly 11:56am, the Federal Fire Service stated that “the fire at the Accountant General’s Office has been extinguished.

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https://www.echotitbits.com/covid-19-no-new-death-in-china-for-the-first-time/

COVID-19: No new death in China for the first time
By echotitbits -April 7, 2020011


For the first time, China on Tuesday has recorded a zero coronavirus death since figures began to rise in January, the National Health Commission confirmed.

Although cases of the virus began to dwindle in March, the country now faces a second wave of infections that are triggered by travelers flying into the country. Health officials have reported nearly 1,000 inbound-traveler oriented cases thus far.

Thirty-two new cases reported nationwide by China’s health authorities were confirmed as imported.

Furthermore, health officials explained that there were also 30 new asymptomatic infections, which bring the national total to 1,033, where a quarter of this figure was confirmed to have emanated from overseas.

Only last week did China began to reveal the number of cases that are asymptomatic. This disclosure is the first time China will do such and might not be unconnected to public concerns that silent carriers will spread the disease.

There are also fears over a potential resurgence in Wuhan where the first case of the coronavirus was first detected last year and which then became the epicenter of the pandemic.

The current asymptomatic situation in China after cases were confirmed in the central Chinese city prompted local authorities to on Monday revoke the “epidemic-free” status that was granted to 45 residential areas.

Since the outbreak of the disease, China has so far recorded 81,740 cases while 3,331 people have been killed by the deadly disease. It is on record that Wuhan and Hubei, a surrounding province were majorly affected.

The coronavirus described as dangerous now ravages many nations in Europe and the US with high fatalities. Global death toll has now surpassed 70,000.

AFP

https://www.echotitbits.com/covid-19-doctors-in-nigeria-kick-against-inviting-chinese-medical-team/

COVID-19: Doctors in Nigeria kick against inviting Chinese medical team
By echotitbits -April 6, 2020034


A group of Nigerian doctors. (File Photo)
The Nigerian Medical Association has kicked against a plan by the Federal government to import a team of 18 medical personnel to aid the nation’s efforts in combating the ravaging coronavirus.

In a statement released by the association, NMA president, Francis Faduyile on Sunday described government’s decision as a priority that is misplaced.

Faduyile stated that the idea is “a thing of embarrassment to the membership of the Association and other health workers who are giving their best in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic under deplorable working conditions.”

Since the announcement of the plan by the Minister for Health, Osagie Ehanire, last Friday, the FG has come under criticism.

One of the groups who criticized government was the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The union argued that inviting an 18-man member medical team from China to handle COVID-19 cases in Nigeria is unnecessary. It added that Nigerian medical personnel were already handling the pandemic well.

In a bid to clarify government’s plan, the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Garba Abari on Sunday said the Chinese team are only invited to share their experiences as per how COVID-19 was managed in China. He said this will include expert suggestions.

Abari affirmed that the intention of government is not to have the Chinese medical team take over operations of the COVID-19 fight in Nigeria.

The NOA DG explained that “whatever information the Chinese medical team makes available to NCDC will be filtered and applied to address the peculiar challenges of the country on handling the COVID-19 scourge.”

He added that as Nigeria is dealing with a global pandemic just as the rest of the world, government will not reject whatever assistance that comes its way.

Regardless of government’s clarification, Nigerian doctors have shown their opposition to a plan to import doctors from China.

While further expressing the association’s rejection of the plan, the NMA president accused government of neglecting extant laws that regulate the practice of medicine in Nigeria as contained in the Medical and Dental Council Act.

Faduyile noted that “this is one such circumstance where the Medical and Dental Council of Nigerian should be consulted to grant necessary approvals to foreigners to interact with Nigerian patients.”

He also added that the association of Nigerian doctors was subjected to the “ignominy of not being carried along in arriving at such a decision”.

https://www.echotitbits.com/police-arrests-suspected-trafficker-again-rescued-27-children/

Police arrests suspected trafficker again, rescued 27 children
By echotitbits -April 7, 2020019


Mary Yakubu (File Photo)
Officers of the Nigerian police in Taraba State have once again apprehended a suspected child trafficker identified as Mary Yakubu.

Mary Yakubu who had been previously arrested twice for trafficking was apprehended on Sunday with 27 children.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer in Taraba, David Misal disclosed that this is the third time security officers will arrest Yakubu. He noted that a total number of 60 children have been rescued from her.

The PRO explained that the 27 children rescued from her on Sunday at Tashan Takalma community in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State include 14 boys and 13 girls.

Misal stated that while the suspect is undergoing court trial, 33 children have been reunited with their family so far.

He said the 27 children rescued during Sunday’s arrest have been handed over to the Ministry of Women Affairs in Taraba State.

On February 26 2020, detectives from Bali Police Division first arrested Yakubu for child trafficking while trying to transport 23 children to an unspecified destination.

The suspect was again arrested on March 4, which led investigation police officers to rescue another 10 children at Mararaban Donga, In Donga LGA of Taraba State.

https://www.echotitbits.com/funke-akindele-not-our-brand-ambassador-ncdc-dettol-nigeria/

Funke Akindele not our Brand Ambassador – NCDC, Dettol Nigeria
By echotitbits -April 6, 2020020


Funke Akindele
Following the arrest of popular Nollywood actress Funke Akindele on Sunday by the police over an alleged violation of the Lagos State Infectious Diseases Regulation 2020, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has denied the thespian as its brand ambassador.

In its reaction, the NCDC on Sunday evening debunked claims that Akindele was its brand ambassador. The agency said via its twitter handle that as an agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria, NCDC has not engaged brand ambassadors as part of our response to COVID-19. We continue to emphasize that all Nigerians maintain social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

Similarly, another brand whose identity featured in a television campaign where Funke Akindele enlightened the public on COVID-19 and preventive measures such as hand washing, also denied that the actress was Dettol ambassador.

Dettol Nigeria stated that “we have been made aware through social media that Funke Akindele recently, acting in her personal capacity, had a celebration which is against the caution to the public on social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The NCDC partnered with Dettol on a public service message to educate our communities about preventive measures against COVID-19. Funke is not a brand ambassador of the NCDC,” the company emphasized.

Dettol Nigeria added that “as a responsible organization and brand, Dettol does not condone any breach of the guidelines on COVID-19.

“As an organization, we are concerned at the turn of events. We will continue to support NCDC and the Nigerian government to fight COVID-19.”

https://www.echotitbits.com/covid-19-doctors-in-nigeria-kick-against-inviting-chinese-medical-team/

COVID-19: Doctors in Nigeria kick against inviting Chinese medical team
By echotitbits -April 6, 2020016


A group of Nigerian doctors. (File Photo)
The Nigerian Medical Association has kicked against a plan by the Federal government to import a team of 18 medical personnel to aid the nation’s efforts in combating the ravaging coronavirus.

In a statement released by the association, NMA president, Francis Faduyile on Sunday described government’s decision as a priority that is misplaced.

Faduyile stated that the idea is “a thing of embarrassment to the membership of the Association and other health workers who are giving their best in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic under deplorable working conditions.”

Since the announcement of the plan by the Minister for Health, Osagie Ehanire, last Friday, the FG has come under criticism.

One of the groups who criticized government was the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The union argued that inviting an 18-man member medical team from China to handle COVID-19 cases in Nigeria is unnecessary. It added that Nigerian medical personnel were already handling the pandemic well.

In a bid to clarify government’s plan, the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Garba Abari on Sunday said the Chinese team are only invited to share their experiences as per how COVID-19 was managed in China. He said this will include expert suggestions.

Abari affirmed that the intention of government is not to have the Chinese medical team take over operations of the COVID-19 fight in Nigeria.

The NOA DG explained that “whatever information the Chinese medical team makes available to NCDC will be filtered and applied to address the peculiar challenges of the country on handling the COVID-19 scourge.”

He added that as Nigeria is dealing with a global pandemic just as the rest of the world, government will not reject whatever assistance that comes its way.

Regardless of government’s clarification, Nigerian doctors have shown their opposition to a plan to import doctors from China.

While further expressing the association’s rejection of the plan, the NMA president accused government of neglecting extant laws that regulate the practice of medicine in Nigeria as contained in the Medical and Dental Council Act.

Faduyile noted that “this is one such circumstance where the Medical and Dental Council of Nigerian should be consulted to grant necessary approvals to foreigners to interact with Nigerian patients.”

He also added that the association of Nigerian doctors was subjected to the “ignominy of not being carried along in arriving at such a decision”.

https://www.echotitbits.com/lockdwon-delta-tasks-military-over-alleged-killing-of-28-year-old/

Lockdown: Delta tasks Military over alleged killing of 28-year old
By echotitbits -April 3, 2020062


Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State (File Photo)
The Delta State Government has called for investigation to unravel what led to the alleged killing of a 28-year old man by security agents in Warri.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the commissioner for Information, Charles Aniagwu, the state government said it is worried about the incident.

While the government decried the alleged killing of the victim by security operatives, Aniagwu enjoined residents to remain calm.

The Commissioner stated that a state government delegation has been instructed to visit the home of the deceased and condole with the family.

Aniagwu added that military authorities have been tasked with conducting an investigation into the matter.

On Thursday, day two of the lockdown order by the state governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, news had broke out that military operatives deployed to enforce the restriction had shot down the victim in Ugbuwangue community in Warri South Local Government Area (LGA) of the State.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Onome Onovwakpoyeya confirmed the killing. She said “yes, it is true, it just happened today, as I was told”, she however noted that details of the incident were still unclear

https://www.echotitbits.com/lockdown-assu-asks-government-to-provide-food-water-electricity/

Lockdown: ASUU asks government to provide food, water, electricity
By echotitbits -April 3, 2020020


Professor Biodun Ogunyemi, National President, Association of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU)
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has advised Federal and State governments to ensure Nigerians are provided with essential needs while the lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic is enforced.

In a statement issued by its National President, Professor Biodun Ogunyemi in Ibadan on Thursday, ASUU warned that lockdown of the country to maintain social distancing as a measure to curb the increasing spread of coronavirus may not achieve its desired result except everyday needs of Nigerians are made available.

Ogunyemi noted that for the lockdown to work, government should provide the basic needs of the people which are food, water and reasonable electricity supply.

He expresses fear that should government fail to provide these basic needs of the people, government at both Federal and State may face a difficult time keeping people in their homes which end up counterproductive.

The ASUU president emphasized that “access to electricity and running water and an unbroken chain of food supply and availability of other essential items should be key components of the policy called lockdown.

“Unless the people’s survival needs are factored into the equation, governments at the national and sub-national levels may be courting an uncontrollable regime of rebellion which may be counterproductive to the cause of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria,” he said.

Ogunyemi advised political leaders across the country to work with everyone so as make the world safe noting that “the lesson to learn from the COVID-19 pandemic is that issues of health and safety know no territorial boundaries.”

He further reiterate the commitment of ASUU to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic saying “ASUU subscribes to this winning formula and path to collective health. In this our shared globe, no one is safe epidemiologically, socially or physically until everyone is safe.”

He encouraged Nigerians to adhere to the advise and instruction by relevant authorities managing the situation.

“We can conquer the fear emerging from the manifestation of this global pandemic in our little corners. We can contribute to the global movement for prevention and control of its spread by applying the health guides and information from the World Health Organisation and other professional institutions and agencies,” Ogunyemi added.

Ogunyemi also highlighted that ASUU has been contributing its quota to eradicating coronavirus through the distribution of sanitizers and sensitization materials to many locations.

https://www.echotitbits.com/coronavirus-buharis-eight-emergency-policy-to-reduce-impact-on-nigerians-economy/

Coronavirus: Buhari’s 9 emergency policies to reduce impact on Nigerians, economy
By echotitbits -April 2, 2020015


Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari
As Nigeria races against time to contain the ravaging novel coronavirus spread in Nigeria, here are 8 emergency policy of government to reduce the pains of Nigerians as contained in the March 30 COVID-19 Regulations 2020 as signed by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Relief materials such as food supplies to be distributed to residents of satellite towns and communities whose livelihoods are affected by the restrictions.
Moratorium of all Federal Government loans issued by the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and the Nigeria Export Import Bank.
Three-month repayment moratorium for all loans under the TraderMoni, MarketMoni and FarmerMoni schemes.
Concessions to ease the burden of on-lending facilities by international and multilateral development partners.
Two months conditioner cash transfers paid immediately to the most vulnerable in the society.
Internally Displaced Person to receive two months of food ration.
All Federal Government Stadia and Pilgrims centres converted to makeshift hospitals.
School Feeding Program to be sustained by the Ministry of Humanitarian, Disaster Management and Social Development and delivered to children who depend on the program for daily feeding, without compromising social distancing policies.
Set up of Economic Sustainability Committee chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

COVID19 Regulation 2020 Relief Materials

https://www.echotitbits.com/covid-19-plateau-government-closes-state-entrance-exit-points/

COVID-19: Plateau government closes state entrance, exit Points
By echotitbits -April 2, 2020011


Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong. (File Photo)
Government of Plateau State has ordered the cessation of movement in and out of the state to curtail the spread of COVID-19.

The order was made known on Thursday 2nd April 2020 by Professor Danladi Atu, who is the Secretary to the State Government.

In his briefing on actions of the state government in response to the deadly coronavirus, Atu noted that all border entry points into the state are directed to close with effect from Thursday.

He noted that this measure is inevitable in the fight against the ravaging COVID-19, and will enable government intensify efforts to avoid a case in the state since there hasn’t been one yet or fight it if it happens . He added that entrance or exit into the state will cease exempting essential services that would be cleared by security agents and preliminary test by health workers.

The SSG revealed that the state government has been receiving cash donations including food supplies and medical equipment. He also stated that a leading financial institution has donated N28.5 million while the Academic Staff Union of Universities have offered hand sanitizers and enlightenment as part of its contribution to efforts geared towards combating coronavirus in the state.

Queen of Waka, Salawa exposes blackmailer who threatened with nudes

Queen of Waka, Salawa exposes blackmailer who threatened with nudes
By echotitbits -April 2, 2020066


Nigerian Waka singer, Salawa Abeni
Veteran Nigerian singer Queen Salawa Abeni has exposed an unidentified individual for threatening to upload her nude pictures on the internet.

The 58 years old waka musician, who came to lime light in 1976 with a debut album titled Late General Murtala Ramat Mohammed took to her verified Instagram page to condemn at attempt to blackmail her for money.

Salawa, whose debut album became the first recording by a female artist to sell over a million copies in Nigeria had revealed the blackmail on Wednesday April 1, 2020.

She wrote “I am very disappointed that someone somewhere will try to tarnish my image and threaten to destroy my career of over 45 years. This morning, I received messages from somebody threatening to expose very old pictures of me and in the process, blackmailing me for money.”

She noted that the pictures which the alleged blackmailer claimed to possess could have been taken while on hospital bed or with her partner many years ago.

The queen of Waka pleaded with Nigerians to be careful stating that “our current situation has made people very desperate. I am almost 60 years old, I have worked very hard and made a name for myself for somebody to believe that they can threaten and trample on my feelings, this is very sad.”

Salawa explained that she had uploaded the pictures herself for everyone to see so as not to be bullied by a blackmailer.

“Thank you and God bless you! For you the blackmailer, I refuse to be bullied by you as I’m sure that I’m old enough to be your MOTHER!!, “ she added.

Meanwhile, prominent Nigerians who responded to the call-out have encouraged and praised the Waka crooner for daring to be bold and not yield to intimidation by faceless elements.

Celebrity publisher, Dele Momodu wrote “Blackmailers are usually COWARDS… Well my very dear @officialsalawaabeni”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-b1PRop_d4/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

In their reactions, celebrated Nollywood thespians Ajoke Silva and Mercy Aigbe wrote respectively- “Well done girl. You took the power away from the fool” and “Now this is how you do it….. Respect ma! You are an epitome of strength! A Queen in all ramifications! Nothing and no one can bring you down! Sending you lots of love ma.”

In a show of respect and love for Abeni, others advised that the phone number of the faceless individual be reported to the authorities for investigation in a bid to make the blackmailer face the wrath of the law

https://www.echotitbits.com/ex-governor-amosun-supports-oguns-fight-against-covid-19/

Ex Governor Amosun supports Ogun’s fight against COVID-19
By echotitbits -April 2, 2020018


Senato Ibikunle Amosun
Former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has on Tuesday March 31, 2020 donated the sum of N25 million to support efforts by the Ogun State government in combating the spread of COVID-19.

Amosun, who is representing Ogun Central in the Senate made his donation known in a letter addressed to his successor, Governor Dapo Abiodun.

He stated that his cash donation has been transferred into the Ogun State Coalition Against COVID-19 account number 1384210113 domiciled in Access Bank.

The lawmaker stated his commitment to joining the Dapo Abiodun led government in ameliorating the sufferings of the people of Ogun State during the restrictions by supporting 25,000 households across the state. He however was not specific about the type of support.

Amosun assured the Governor and his team of his constant touch with Federal Government Agencies in and outside the state in order to attract the maximum assistance possible for the people of Ogun State.

https://www.echotitbits.com/covid-19-former-president-obasanjo-and-11-african-leaders-fear-the-worst/

COVID-19: Obasanjo, ex-African leaders fear the Worst, call for regional effort
By echotitbits -March 31, 2020015


Former President Olusegun Obasanjo
Former president Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria has led 11 other past African leaders in a call for concrete, effective, and continental emergency plan to combat COVID-19 onslaught that is fast ravaging Africa.

The 12 former African leaders made this call on Tuesday March 31, 2020 in a statement titled Appeal for Preparation for Africa to Confront the Onslaught of COVID-19.

The statement, which was released with the official letterhead of former president Obasanjo was co-signed by Festus Mogae, Former President of Botswana; Hailemariam Desalegn, Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia; John Kufour, Former President of Ghana and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Former President of Liberia.

Others are Joyce Banda, Former President of Malawi; Joaquim Chissano, Former President of Mozambique; Thabo Mbeki, Former President of South Africa; Kgalema Motlanthe, Former President of South Africa; Benjamin Mkapa, Former President of Tanzania; Jakaya Kikwete, Former President of Tanzania and Mohamed Marzouki, Former President of Tunisia.

The former leaders expressed concern over the weak health facilities across Africa and emphasized the need for a larger approach beyond individual national efforts.

“The epidemiological progression in already affected areas has indicated that the worst case is yet to occur in Africa. Taking into account the weak healthcare bases in Africa, the conurbation, and the communal living of our people particularly in ghettos and poverty-stricken areas of our cities, the outbreak of COVID-19 in these areas of African communities and cities will be a monumental disaster.

“As concerned African leaders, note the efforts that African governments are making within their limited resources to deal with this global challenge. We, however, appeal to leaders and elites at national, regional, and continental level and to international organisations and foundations to draw up a concrete, effective, and continental emergency plan to combat COVID-19 onslaught at its crescendo in Africa,” the statement read.

They also called the attention of African leaders at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19 to the porous borders across Africa and advised that a continental and regional effort should be activated.

Also, they appealed to the AU, UN, WHO, World Bank and G-20 to “urgently have a plan that will moderate the social and economic effect of the onslaught of COVID-19 on Africa.”

https://www.echotitbits.com/nigerian-senators-to-donate-50-percent-of-salaries-to-fight-coronavirus/

Nigerian Senators to donate 50 percent of salaries to fight coronavirus
By echotitbits -March 31, 2020015


Nigerian Senate
Nigerian Senators have announced a decision to donate half of their salaries to help the Federal Government combat the ravaging COVID-19 pandemic across the country.

This decision, which was described as part of efforts to respond to the spread and treatment of COVID-19 patients, was contained in a statement released on Monday by Godiya Akwashiki, acting spokesman of the Senate.

Akwashiki noted that “after due consultations following a keen review of the national efforts to contain the coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria, the Senate wishes to announce that from March, 2020, Distinguished Senators will be donating 50 per cent of their salaries to these efforts to stop the spread of the disease, otherwise known as COVID-19, in our country.”

The acting spokesman also stated that “this monthly contribution from the Upper Legislative Chamber will be sustained until Nigeria is declared safe from the ravages of this deadly disease”.

Members of the Senate also noted that Presidnet Muhammadu’s effort in combating the coronavirus situation despite the rising number of confirmed cases is commendable.

The statement further stated that the National assembly “is willing and ready to do whatever is required of the Legislature for the effectiveness of all the measures in place now or that may be required in the future to win the fight against this menace.”

Senator Akwashiki commended all agencies of the Federal and state governments for their commitment and sacrifice to protect Nigerians from COVID-19 pandemic thereby safeguarding public health.

He said “the Senate further appeals to the citizens to comply with the directives on social distancing and observance of basic rules of hygiene as explained by public health officials as the most effective way to protect ourselves, families and country against COVID-19.

“This is a global adversity that is testing the wit and resilience of mankind all over the world. By staying resolute and each of us responsibly playing their role, COVID-19 like all epidemics before it will soon be pushed into history,” Senator Akwashiki stated.

The Nigerian Senate has consistently come under condemnation by Nigerians for its outrageous wages and recently for its decision to purchase exotic cars worth about N5.5 billion

https://www.echotitbits.com/president-buhari-declares-covid-19-dangerous-allows-use-of-atms-during-restriction/

President Buhari declares COVID-19 dangerous, allows use of ATMs during restriction
By echotitbits -March 31, 2020019


President Muhammadu Buhari
Nigeria’s President Muammadu Buhari has on Monday March 30, 2020 signed a document declaring COVID-19 a dangerous infectious disease.

In a statement released by Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to the President, the document is known as the COVID-19 Regulation 2020.

Adesina stated that the president’s declaration is in line with the executive powers conferred on him by Section 2, 3 and 4 of the Quarantine Act (CAP Q2 LFN 2004).

Buhari’s spokesman noted the regulation became effective March 30, 2020 and gave legal backing to the containment measures and directives such as cessation of movement in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun states as outlined by the president in his National Broadcast last Sunday.

Adesina further noted that the measures ordered by the president are efforts to contain the spread of the pandemic. He also added that in order to ensure Nigerians can still perform online transactions and use ATMs, exemption is given to financial systems and money markets so as to keep the system running during the pendency of the regulations.

https://www.echotitbits.com/nigeria-confirms-14-new-cases-of-covid-19/

Nigeria Confirms 14 New Cases of COVID-19
By echotitbits -March 30, 2020028


By Tobiloba Kolawole

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed fourteen new cases of COVID-19 in Lagos and Abuja.

In a statement released late Sunday evening, the NCDC revealed that the new cases include nine in Lagos State and five in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The NCDC explained via it’s official twitter handle that the new development now brings the total number of confirmed cases of corona virus in Nigeria as at 09:30pm, Sunday March 29th, 2020 to 111.



Lagos has the highest number of confirmed cases at 68, FCT 21, Oyo 7 and Ogun 3. Edo, Bauchi, Enugu and Osun have 2 confirmed cases each while Ekiti, Rivers, Benue and Kaduna have 1 confirmed case each.

You will recall that on Sunday evening President Muhammadu Buhari had imposed a ban on movements within and outside Lagos and Ogun in his first national address since the outbreak of the COVID-19 in Nigeria.


Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s President
President Buhari ordered that “based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and 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.

He said “this restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two states.”

The President urged Nigerians especially residents of Lagos, Ogun and Abuja to comply with all directives and to remain in their homes as government through its agencies is doing everything to curb the further spread of the corona virus.

He added that all business and offices within the affected states should be locked and travel to and from other states be suspended.

https://www.echotitbits.com/11-exemptions-to-president-buharis-lockdown-order/

11 Exemptions to President Buhari’s Lockdown Order | Echotitbits
By
echotitbits
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27

Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria's President
Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday March 29 took decisive steps to combat COVID-19 pandemic by locking down the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos and Ogun States.



President Buhari’s action came many days after the outbreak of the pandemic in Nigeria.
In his nationwide broadcast address, which is viewed by many as the aftermath of public outcry for the president to show leadership, Buhari ordered restrictions of movement in the FCT, Ogun and Lagos States.

The President had stated that his decision was based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC who have been at the forefront of combating the corona virus pandemic.

President Buhari described the 14 days curfew, which is expected to begin from 11pm on Monday as imperative and in line with his government’s efforts to urgently and drastically contain the spread of the virus.

While the lock down order by the President is clear, it however exempts some category of people and institutions. These set of exemptions include.

1. Hospitals
2. Medical establishments
3. Health care manufacturing and distribution companies
4. Private security companies
5. Telecommunications Workers
6. Print media staff
7. Food processing, distribution and retail companies
8. Petroleum distribution and retail entities
9. Broadcasters
10. Power generation, transmission and distribution companies
11. Electronic media personnel.


Essential Workers
It is advisable that anyone who falls in these categories should wear their identification cards when on duty.