COVID-19: Oyetola orders cabinet members’ test, charges citizens to follow suit

Abimbola Abatta, Osogbo

As part of measures to manage the second wave of the coronavirus infection, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of the State of Osun has ordered all Commissioners and Special Advisers in the state to take compulsory COVID-19 test to ascertain their status.

Similarly, he has also directed all drivers in his convoy, domestic staff and aides attached to senior government officials to present themselves for similar screening.

He has also advised citizens to follow suit because of early detection, he noted is the key to avoiding a tragic outcome that has accompanied this second wave.

In an interview with the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mrs Funke Egbemode said the government had increased testing capacities across all the local government areas at no cost to citizens.

Egbemode said: “Governor Adegboyega Oyetola has shown example by ascertaining his COVID-19 status, ordering all his cabinet members to take the test as well.

“The results have returned and only two people returned positive. They have since gone into isolation and commenced treatment. We can confirm that they are stable, and a repeat test will be conducted in a few days to check their progress.

“That is why the Governor is encouraging citizens to also take the test to be sure of their status. Early detection is very important during this second wave. The virus is more deadly now than it was during the first wave.

“Citizens are hereby advised to take personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of others, and this now includes taking the COVID-19 test to commence immediate treatment if the result returns positive,” Egbemode stated.

The Governor also encouraged citizens and residents to ensure they continue to observe COVID-19 protocols at all times.