Two aides of the Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has tested positive to the novel virus COVID-19 after the first subjected themselves to a test as well as the aides.
Governor Ikpeazu made it clear that the family underwent the test on 30th May 2020 and all results turned out negative except for the two aides who were asymptomatic and isolated at the moment.
The test became necessary for the first family, his aides, the state exco on COVID-19 when a distressing statement made by the Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu suggested that the late Commissioner of Environment, Dr Solomon Ogunji died of the virus.
The statement reads: ”The new phase of the fight against COVID-19 in Abia will require that the state embarks on a massive test of citizens to achieve at least 10% coverage of our population.
“Towards this, the state epidemiologist has been directed to work out modalities for case searches using a sample population size of between 30 to 250 persons, in some densely populated LGAs of the state.
”Meanwhile, we cannot win and save lives as long as we continue to stigmatize our patients. If any person gets COVID-19 it is unfortunate, but it is not criminal and may not be his/her fault.
”Leading this battle from the front, as your Governor, I and all members of the first family subjected ourselves to COVID-19 tests on Saturday, 30th May 2020 and the result came out negative today.
”Unfortunately, the results of two of my aides who also subjected themselves to COVID-19 tests were positive while others turned in negative results. We are confident that within days the currently asymptomatic positive patients who are now isolated will be successfully nursed back to good health, with God in our side.” Ikpeazu said.
“Further to my earlier directive on the testing of members of the state executive council, I wish to direct that all Transition Council Chairmen of our 17 LGAs and their Deputies present themselves for COVID-19 tests and thereafter isolate themselves pending the release of their test results.”
“I encourage all citizens and residents to get involved in the battle against COVID-19 rather than engage in rumour-mongering. Take responsibility because Abia is ready to win this battle with all hands on deck.”
