By Kingsley Agim, CRS MOI Officer reporting from Ministry of Information and Orientation
Cross River State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Comrade Asu Okang, has admonished Cross Riverians and residents of the State to adhere strictly to the directives of the State Government as precautionary measures to prevent the covid-19 pandemic from spreading into the State.
Comrade Okang, who gave the charge during a Special Press Briefing organized recently by his Ministry to keep the people abreast of the development of the global health crisis, noted that Governor Ben Ayade’s ‘stay at home’ directive and all other regimentations are in place for the health and safety of the people of the State.
The Information and Orientation Commissioner commended the State Governor, Sir Ben Ayade proactive inhibition and modalities put in place in the fight against the deadly corona virus.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Betta Edu, stated that Cross River State Government has shown commitment and leadership in protecting its people, in spite of no support yet from the Federal Government.
The Health Commissioner said it is in line with international trend, that Governor Ayade came up with an 11-point directive, shutting down activities in the State for14 days.
Dr. Edu informed that personnel at the various isolation centres in the State have been undergoing 6-hourly drills on handling Covid-19 related cases.
She said the State Governor has also made provision for infrared thermometers for screening of vehicles entering the State.
To enforce compliance to the Governor’s directives, the Commissioner informed that the newly inaugurated ad hoc taskforce would drive the process.
The Health Boss also stated that with adequate advocacy, religious organizations in the State have directed worshippers to conduct family cells services with recourse to social distancing and other measures.
“5, 000 bottles of Vitamin E contained hand sanitizer will be available from Monday for distribution to the public,” she revealed.
“As responsible citizens, let us ensure that we comply with the directives of the Governor and maintain good personal hygiene as we stay in our various homes,” she concluded.
The event which held in the Newsroom of the Ministry of Information and Orientation, also featured a question and answer session, where the sitting arrangement for journalists recognized social distancing of three metres.