*Large gathering is prohibited- PTF insists
By Hassan Zaggi
The Federal Government has raised the alarm that the surveillance system set up by the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on Covid-19, has revealed that Nigerians have been purchasing Hydrxoychloroquine in large quantities.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, raised the alarm at a media briefing in Abuja, Thursday.
“We wish to reiterate that this drug has not being certified for use in treating Covid-19 in Nigeria by the relevant health and pharmaceutical authorities.
“Self-medication of any kind, is fraught with the danger of increasing risks of avoidable casualties.
“We, therefore, strongly warn against self-medication. If you are sick, please seek medical advice and if you are confirmed positive, kindly self-isolate in an approved facility. The Covid-19 is highly infectious and dangerous.”
The PTF has also insisted that large gatherings beyond 20 persons remain prohibited and should be adhered to.
This is in reaction to the relaxed on the ban on large gatherings by some state governments in the country.
According to the SGF: “During the meeting with the governors, the issue of alignment of their state level actions with the guidelines issued was emphasized.
“Similarly emphasized is the need for states to diligently implement and enforce compliance. Particularly, I underscored the need for the governors to provide personal and strong leadership, carry the policy of community ownership to the grass roots and create deeper awareness.
“The governors were also advised on the decision taken by some of their colleagues to permit large gatherings as such decisions could inadvertently endanger the elderly, the sick and those with underlying factors during such gatherings. “The strong advisory from the PTF is that large gatherings beyond 20 persons remains prohibited and should be adhered to.”
While congratulating the Muslims in Nigeria for the successful completion of the Ramadan fast, he cautioned that: “I, therefore use this opportunity to wish all our Muslim brothers and sisters a very happy and safe Eid celebrations.
“But as we celebrate, we want to once again caution on the need to wear a mask, keep physical distances, avoid large congregations, avoid unnecessary inter-state travels and observe personal hygiene amongst other suggested safety measures.
“The foregoing admonition becomes critical as we prepare for celebrations at the end of the month of Ramadan.
“It is the prayer of the PTF that we shall all celebrate this Sallah and many more in good health and beseech the Almighty to accept our supplication and look upon our Nation and the World, with mercy.”
