Coronavirus: PTF warns of high risks in protest gatherings

The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has advised #EndSARS protesters to listen to the voice of reason and tow the path of dialogue.

PTF Chairman and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Boss Mustapha, made the appeal at a media briefing of the task force yesterday in Abuja.

He warned that protesters’ disregard to maintain social distance, wear facemasks and take other protective measures could trigger a new wave of outbreak.

“It will not be out of place for the PTF to, in consideration of the foregoing, remind all Nigerians that we are in the middle of a global pandemic.

“The virus remains very virulent, deadly and dangerous. It is an unseen enemy which thrives when people lower their guard.

“While we use this medium to join other voices of reason, to appeal to the youths to harken to the invitation to dialogue, we also emphasize that non-compliance with the NPIs are very risky adventures that must be avoided.

“We cannot afford to lose momentum and risk a second wave that might overwhelm our health systems.

“The PTF has, on account of these developments, accelerated its plans for the National Testing Week and shall continue to monitor developments in all areas of the economy that have reopened and where new mass gathering events are taking place over the next three weeks for signs of spike in numbers.

“We urge everyone who has been exposed unduly to large gatherings to get tested and/or report any signs of the symptoms of COVID-19,” he said.

Also, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has said the COVID-19 pandemic had killed 16 doctors while 1,031 others were exposed to the virus and 321 confirmed positive for the disease.

NMA President, Prof. Innocent Ujah, announced this yesterday in Lagos at a media briefing to mark this year’s Physician Week.

Ujah condemned the kidnapping and killing of doctors and other health workers by insurgents.

The NMA president urged the Federal Government to do all within its power to rescue those in captivity.

He said: “As of October 8, 2020, there were 1,031 doctors who were exposed to the virus in Nigeria and 321 confirmed cases. Sadly, 16 (mortality rate of 4.98 per cent) of our members were painfully lost in the battle to save the lives of Nigerians, the price we have to pay in obedience to the Hippocratic Oath.”