The Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Osun State, Prince Wole Oyebamiji, spoke about his COVID-19 experience, just as he implored Nigerians thinking COVID-19 was a scam to have a rethink.
Oyebamiji spoke shortly fter he recovered from the disease which he tested positive for about two weeks ago.
Oyebamiji who attested to the reality of the virus said with what he saw, experienced and went through, it was wrong for anyone to describe the COVID-19 as a scam.
He, however, said his survival had proved that contracting COVID-19 was after all not a death sentence.
He said those doubting the reality of the virus should wake up as it could lead to death if not properly and promptly treated.
While imploring Nigerians, particularly the people of the state to cooperate with the government and abide by the safety rules, Oyebamiji said the only way to contain the virus and put an end to it was for the people to stay safe.
His words: “I want to tell Nigerians that COVID-19 is real though not a death sentence. I will urge Nigerians to cooperate with their leaders and adhere strictly to the directives of the NCDC. And the moment one spots any health challenge, he or she should report immediately to the health workers.
“In addition, I want to say that the various efforts of government can only yield fruit if we citizens abide by the rules and regulations of staying safe and staying alive.
“We must adhere strictly to the use of face masks, social distancing and avoid crowded places among other precautionary measures.
“We must know that government is spending fortunes to ensure that the citizens live healthy and this must not be abused or jeopardised by our carefree attitude to simple health tips.
“For instance in Osun, as early as first week of March when the outbreak of the pandemic was confirmed, the state government started warning on the need for the citizens to abide by the safety measures.
“So, I urge the citizens of Osun in particular to please comply with the simple rules and regulations.”
When asked on how he contracted the disease in spite of the safety measures put in place by government, Oyebamiji said only God knew because he did everything possible to stay safe.
He attributed the frontline roles played by members of the cabinet particularly himself after the outbreak of the disease in the state as a major factor that might have led to his infection.
Oyebamiji, a septuagenarian, explained that his infection was not due to carelessness but rather a job hazard as because those in government had to keep working to keep the state working and safe.
“As you all know all cabinet members were on the field to ensure that the spread of the virus is contained. We did our best to ensure that we contain the spread of the virus. Cabinet members can’t just go into hiding. We just maintain a delicate balance between staying safe and doing the job we took an oath to do,” he explained.
