The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has urged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and cooperate with public health authorities following the Federal Government’s confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The IGP emphasised the importance of public awareness, personal hygiene and strict adherence to preventive measures to safeguard lives and prevent further transmission of the disease.

Members of the public are advised to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, avoid direct contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected cases, and stay away from potentially contaminated items. The public is also cautioned against touching or washing the bodies of persons suspected to have died from Ebola.

Anyone who may have been exposed to the virus should promptly contact health authorities for guidance. Individuals who develop symptoms following possible exposure should avoid physical contact with others and call the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) on 6232, its toll-free helpline, for immediate guidance.

The IGP has further directed police personnel to observe appropriate infection prevention measures while carrying out their duties and promptly refer suspected cases to qualified health professionals. He stressed that suspected patients, contacts and healthcare workers must be treated with dignity and without discrimination.

The Force also calls on members of the public to cooperate with contact-tracing teams, provide accurate information when required and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary panic. Nigerians are encouraged to rely on official updates from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the NCDC and other authorised public health agencies.

The Nigeria Police Force assures the public of its commitment to supporting relevant health authorities in protecting lives and maintaining public order throughout this period.

Protecting public health is a shared responsibility. Stay informed, remain vigilant and do not stigmatise.

ASA