₦airaland Forum

Four new confirmed COVID-19 cases have emerged in Enugu State.

These new cases are two adults and two children, who live in Enugu and hail from Bauchi State and travelled to Jos Plateau State, with the case that was reported as the 3rd positive case in Enugu.

This brings the status of positive cases ever reported in Enugu to 8 with 6 active cases.

Please Continue to observe the safety measures.

Signed
Obi Emmanuel Ikechukwu
Commissioner for Health, Enugu State

#Enugu COVID 19 Announcement

A fourth confirmed case of COVID-19 in Enugu has emerged.

This means 4 cases have tested positive in Enugu, 2 have been discharged and now 2 are currently positive.

This new case is a 39 year old who used to live and work in Lagos.

Recently this person travelled back to Enugu on the 22nd of April, took ill subsequently and reported to a mission Hospital in the state.
Staff of the hospital alerted the State COVID 19 response team days later and samples were taken on the 29th of April which have turned out to be positive today 1st May 2020. This new case is not a contact of the 3rd case.

Thus far cases reported in Enugu have had positive travel history.

Greater vigilance at the ports of entry into Enugu State is advised. We are now reporting cases that are not primary contacts of confirmed cases.

The Enugu State Ministry of Health continues to recommend to the good people of Enugu State, the following:

1. Stay at home as much as you can.
2. Use a clean cloth mask daily if you have to go out
3. Do not touch the front of the mask while wearing it
4. Remove your mask only from both ears at the same time
5. Wash your cloth mask, dry and iron it everyday
8. Maintain respiratory hygiene when you have to cough or sneeze
9. Maintain social/physical distancing always
10. Wash your hands as often as you can with soap and running water
11. When you can't wash your hands use an alcohol based hand sanitizer frequently.

Call these numbers if you think you may have or know someone who may have Covid-19 symptoms, 08182555550 or 09022333833, or the NCDC number 080097000010
If I do these, I protect you and if you do these, you protect me.
Stay Safe!

Obi Emmanuel Ikechukwu
Commissioner for Health, Enugu State.

A group in Bayelsa State, APC Grassroot Mobilization Sagbama/ Ekeremor, has said that the Bayelsa West Senatorial seat belongs to the Sagbama region of the state. The group, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Ebide Brown, said only the region possess the right person who will adequately represent the state at the senate.

According to the statement, “The Chairman of APC GRASSROOT MOBILIZATION SAGBAMA/ EKEREMOR, Comrade Ebide Brown, after due consultation of all the members across the wards in Bayelsa West Senatorial district has come up with the notion that no politician in EKEREMOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA should nurse the ambition of contesting the senatorial bye-election.” The group maintained that the vacant seat left by senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor, the current deputy governor of Bayelsa State still belongs to Sagbama.

“There is an amicable political arrangement and understanding between SAGBAMA and EKEREMOR, truncation of this understanding is detrimental to the political history of the two Local Government Areas. Below is the political history of representation with regards to the senate from the inception of democracy in 1999: * Senator Emmanuel Tupele-ebi Diffa: 1999-2003. ( SAGBAMA) * Senator John Kojo Brambaifa: 2003-2007( SAGBAMA) * Senator Heineken Lokpobiri: 2007-2015 ( EKEREMOR) * Senator Foster Ogola : 2015-2019 ( SAGBAMA) * Senator Lawrence EWHRUDJAKPOR: 2019- February 2020( SAGBAMA).

The legislature is a cardinal institution of governance in a democracy. No one wants a senator that will be submerged in the national assembly. The APC GRASSROOT MOBILIZATION SAGBAMA/ EKEREMOR believes that it takes something special to be a Senator that will represent a Federal constituency; there are standards and qualities that make for distinction in the senate. A good Senator must be eloquent and can supply the oratorical gloss to orchestrate points of significance during floor debates and must be able to excel at protecting the interest of the state and senatorial district of origin.

The issue of restructuring and resource control are of great importance to the Ijaw nation now. Beyond party lines, the former governor of Bayelsa State, Honourable Seriake Dickson has the aforementioned qualities and capacity for effective and qualitative representation. Being a former member of the house of Representatives from 2007- 2012, the ex-governor will be a high ranking member when elected to represent Bayelsa west senatorial district. Honourable Seriake Dickson has the energy, eloquence, wit, intelligence and influence to bring development to the people of SAGBAMA AND EKEREMOR as he did when he was governor in the construction of SAGBAMA- EKEREMOR road which is accessible for carrying of essential commodities in the lockdown due to the global pandemic.

The ex-governor has experience and capacity to speak for the Ijaw nation at large in the Senate. In conclusion, the aforementioned non-governmental organization under the chairmanship of Comrade EBIDE BROWN is unflaggingly supporting Honourable Henry Seriake Dickson’s senatorial bid. The body is calling on all political leaders across party lines to put their weights behind the ex-governor for effective and qualitative representation and legislation, convertible to tangible development.

Breaking News!

COVID-19 lockdown: Gov. Ugwuanyi directs Council Chairmen, Councilors, Neighborhood Watch Groups, Youths, others to man land boundaries

Following reports that persons on non-essential duties have continued to traverse the boundaries of Enugu State “with the tacit support of some unscrupulous persons” despite the state government’s COVID-19 Containment Order (Executive Order No. 1 of 2020) in force, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has directed all the 17 Local Government Council Chairmen “to mobilize all Development Center Administrators, Councilors, Traditional Rulers and Presidents General of Communities as well as Neighborhood Watch Groups and Youth Leaders within their jurisdiction to man the borders of their local Government Council Areas that are contiguous with other States”.

In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, the governor also directed the Council Chairmen “to liaise with the members of National Union of Road Transport Workers, Association of Tricycle Riders Transport Union and Okada Riders Union to ensure that intending passengers beyond Enugu State are not allowed to board vehicles in Motor Parks within their jurisdiction”.

Prof. Ortuanya added that “they are to ensure that passengers conveyed from outside the state are not allowed to disembark within their Local Government Council Areas”, disclosing that “the vehicles of erring operators will be impounded and handed over to law enforcement agents for appropriate action”.

Noting that “this condemnable conduct” compromises the current efforts of the Enugu State Government to contain the ravaging Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the statement stated that “the border control activities in all Local Government Council Areas in Enugu State that are contiguous with other states will be intensified at night-time, which is the time most of the infractions occur”.

The statement warned that “any person or group caught aiding and abetting the illegal traverse through Enugu State borders will be arrested and handed over to security agencies for prosecution”.

The SSG pointed out that these decisions were in furtherance of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s determination “as ever to contain the spread of the contagion in Enugu State and protect the residents from avoidable morbidity and mortality”.

Full text of the statement reads:

“It has come to the knowledge of Enugu State Government that despite the COVID–19 Containment Order – Executive Order No.1 of 2020 in force in Enugu State, which among other things, imposes interstate movement restriction, persons with non-essential mission have continued to traverse the borders of Enugu State with the tacit support of some unscrupulous persons.

"This condemnable conduct compromises the current Enugu State Government’s effort at the containment of this ravaging Coronavirus Disease (COVID - 19) pandemic.

“His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State, determined as ever to contain the spread of this contagion in Enugu State and protect the residents from avoidable morbidity and mortality, hereby further orders as follows:

“All Local Government Council Chairmen are to mobilize all Development Center Administrators, Councilors, Traditional Rulers and Presidents General of Communities as well as Neighborhood Watch Groups and Youth Leaders within their jurisdiction to man the borders of their local Government Council Areas that are contiguous with other States.

“All Local Government Council Chairmen are to liaise with the members of National Union of Road Transport Workers, Association of Tricycle Riders Transport Union and Okada Riders Union within their jurisdiction to ensure that intending passengers beyond Enugu State are not allowed to board vehicles in Motor Parks within their jurisdiction.

“In like manner, they are to ensure that passengers conveyed from outside the state are not allowed to disembark within their Local Government Council Areas. Tlohe vehicle of erring operators will be impounded and handed over to law enforcement agents for appropriate action.

“The border control activities in all Local Government Council Areas in Enugu State that are contiguous with other states will be intensified at night-time during which most of the infractions occur.

“Any person or group caught aiding and abetting the illegal traverse through Enugu State borders will be arrested and handed over to Security Agencies for prosecution.”

"Court says Enugu striking doctors risk contempt charge
Court says Enugu striking doctors risk contempt charge

The National Industrial Court, Enugu Division, has said that the Enugu State Government could commence contempt proceeding against the striking Resident Doctors of EnuguState University Teaching Hospital (ESUT-TH) Parklane, if it so desired.

The court had restrained the doctors from embarking on industrial action following an application the government brought against them earlier this year.

Regardless, the resident doctors on April 25, 2020, withdrew their services from the teaching hospital, claiming that the state Government reneged on their last month’s agreement with them.

Justice O.O Arowosegbe while ruling on a motion exparte brought before the court on Wednesday, by one Mr. Oscar Mba, on behalf of Enugu urban residents, seeking for an order against the doctors to stay all actions in connection with the resumed industrial action, said that there was a valid and subsisting injunction restraining the medical doctors from embarking on industrial action that could be revisited.

According to the court, it would amount to abuse of court process since the defendants were the same doctors and the prayers same as that of the government application.

It averred that the state could invoke Form 48 and 49 to commence contempt proceeding against the defendants.

Therefore, the court declined to grant Mba’s prayers since the employers of doctors, which is the government, was not joined in his application.

Justice Arowosegbe ruled that since Mba’s action and that of the government were the same, he would hear the substantive matters together on May 20, 2020, earlier scheduled for the matter.

In his argument, counsel to the plaintiff, Mr Princewill Agu stated that his client, was devastated when on April 27, his wife took their twins to the Parklane hospital for medical check-up only to discover that the resident doctors had withdrawn their services.

He contended that since the resident doctors were engaged in the provision of essential services, they cannot take part in any strike, particularly during the present Coronavirus pandemic."

A section of Enugu residents at the bank of Ekulu River, G.R.A, Enugu, has called on relevant government authorities in the state to come to their rescue as structures erected by The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement, at Pocket Layout by Trans-Ekulu Flyover, Enugu.

Igbere TV correspondent reports that residents lamented that the buildings are posing a serious threat to their property in the neighborhood.

The state headquarters of the church is situated very close to the Ekulu River, which forced the leadership of church to construct concrete retaining walls blocking the waterway.

Igbere TV correspondent who visited the scene of the incident said that the church structure is threatened by the flood as a result of the blockage of the waterway which had also forced the water to re-route its flow to other people’s residence within the neighborhood.

Reacting to the ugly incident, one of the residents who spoke on behalf of the neighborhood, Engr. Jerry Ezenwa, expressed concern that if urgent interventions are not carried out by appropriate government authorities, their buildings and that of others may be affected by the flood.

Engr. Ezenwa wondered why the church chose to build on such a dangerous terrain that is being ravaged by flood, stressing the past government ought not to have allowed such constructions in the area.

He therefore charged the state government to enforce discipline and deal decisively with the alarming rate of illegal structures on waterways in the state in order to save lives and avert avoidable damage of people’s property by flood.

Another resident, who identified himself as Mr. Nnaemeka Onuora, disclosed that they had sent an SOS to the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) for intervention, adding that the ECTDA has visited the site.

Mr. Onuora pointed out that “the volume of water on this Ekulu River whenever it rains heavily is so high and alarming that nobody or organization should ever contemplate blocking this waterway with any structure”.

He appealed to the ECTDA to live up to its responsibilities and extend its enforcement and development regulatory mandate to every nook and cranny of state capital without fear or favour for safety of lives and people’s property.

The resident therefore advised those who build and erect structures on waterways to “desist from such unlawful and dangerous ventures that are detrimental to lives and property of our people”, lamenting that “I cannot lose my hard earned property here because of another person’s negligence and ineptitude”.

April 24, 2020


The Enugu State Government in furtherance of its commitment to contain Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in the state as well as cushion the effect of COVID-19 lockdown on the lives of the citizens, paid the salaries of all public servants in the state, yesterday, April 23, 2020.

The state government additionally paid the COVID-19 Allowance for all health workers in the state, which represents 25% of their basic salaries as recently approved by the State Executive Council (EXCO), as incentive.

COVID-19 Lockdown: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State monitors compliance; visits Enugu-Benue and Enugu-Kogi land boundaries; charges security agencies on duty to enforce total restrictions except those on essential duties.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

In strict adherence to directives of the Enugu State Government closing all land boundaries and inter-state transportation, among other precautionary measures, to contain the spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in the state, the Nigeria Army, at its checkpoint in Nsukka, intercepted over 30 vehicles loaded with passengers who were passing through the state.

The intercepted passengers were consequently escorted out of the state by the military with the assistance of the police.

Some of the passengers who were mostly from Northern parts of the country, according to the security officials on duty, disguised and covered themselves with bags of food items, which are allowed into the state as essential commodities.

One of the intercepted passengers, Peter who was coming into the state from Benue State revealed to newsmen that they trekked from the state land boundary from Amalla to Obollo Afor in Udenu Local Government Area, where they boarded bus to their destinations.

Other offending passengers from Port Harcourt heading to the North, disclosed that they passed through the Bonny River to cross the Rivers State's land boundaries to be able to board buses through Enugu State, to their destinations, stressing that they are desirous to return to their native homes and face the inherent challenges occasioned by COVID-19.

The security officials who escorted the passengers out, warned other intending travelers to stay at home and keep away from Enugu State, as the security agencies in compliance with the directives of the state government will not condone further breaches of the lockdown order in the state.

Enugu Nike Lake Hotel: Board sends SOS to ECTDC as illegal structures on waterway cause overflow

The Board of Directors of Nike Lake Resort Hotel, Enugu, has sent an SOS to the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) following the blockage of the lake with illegal structures which caused an overflow at the popular ‘Omenala Bar’ section of the hotel during the last rain in the state.

The Board made the call through its Chairperson, Dame (Barr.) Ugochi Madueke, when she led other members to identify some illegal structures that are blocking the flow of water in the lake.

The structures include concrete retaining walls and buildings.

Addressing newsmen, Dame Madueke expressed concern that if urgent intervention is not carried out by the ECTDA and other relevant government agencies to remove the illegal structures and protect the lake from such avoidable overflow, a recurrence of such ugly experience may pose a threat to the hotel “which this state and entire South East geo-political zone hold in high esteem”.

The Board Chairperson noted that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration is desirous of repositioning Nike Lake Resort Hotel, Enugu, to continue to play its leading role as a tourist attraction and centre for relaxation, stressing that “any act that is capable of undermining the realization of this vision will be discouraged”.

According to her, “We are here on a rescue mission. As you can see, this is a water retainer built by whoever that owns this place. You can see “Stop Work” and “Remove” signs marked on the structure by the State Ministry of Environment on the 13th of February, 2020, and the owner has not done anything about it.

“This water retainer is stopping water from flowing in the lake. This retaining wall and other illegal structures inside and beside this lake were responsible for the recent overflow we encountered at the ‘Omenala’ Bar of this cherished hotel.

“If we don’t stop this wall now as well as other structures affecting this lake, then it is going to be a problem not just to the ‘Omenala’ Bar but also to the main hotel and we won’t allow it to happen.

“So, we are calling on the State Capital Territory Development Authority to come to our rescue and pull down these illegal structures on the waterway.

“This gas plant here, part of it is on the waterway and blocks the lake. The other buildings over there are also on the waterway and if we don’t rescue this hotel now, especially the ‘Omenala’ Bar, we are going to have a big problem.

"So, we are begging the government, we are calling on Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority to come to our rescue.

"This is a matter of urgent public interest”.

Other members of the Board who were part of the inspection include Barr. Francis Nnamani, Chijioke Jude Ugwu, Chris Ezema, Engr. Okechukwu Michael Igbonekwu, Mrs. Uche Onwuzu and HRH Igwe (Engr.) Chukwudi Ejeh.

The Enugu State Government has expressed her condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, on the death of his Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari.

The state government also condoled with the Abba Kyari family and the Federal Executive Council.

In a statement by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, the government described the late Kyari as "a dedicated and loyal Chief of Staff, who discharged his duties with great commitment and selflessness", and beseeched that the Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

April 16, 2020
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

It has come to the knowledge of Enugu State Government that the MTN Cell Phone Line of His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State was hacked by unknown fraudsters today, and has been used to call members of the public including Government Officials.

Enugu State Government hereby informs the members of the public of this unfortunate incident and urges them to disregard any call or message emanating from the said Phone Line.

The Security Agencies and the Telecom Service Providers have been duly notified and are working round the clock to apprehend the culprits.

We most sincerely regret any embarrassment or inconvenience that these fraudsters may have caused unsuspecting members of the public.

Nnayelugo Chidi Aroh
Hon. Commissioner for Information
Enugu State

A cross section of Enugu residents and the state chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have hailed the decision of the Enugu North Local Government Council to close the Tomato section of Akwatta Market in Ogbete Main Market, Enugu, describing it as a clarion call answered.

The state residents and students also applauded the Enugu State Government for closing all the markets in the state as one of the precautionary measures to contain the spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in the state.

It would be recalled that the Chairman of Enugu North LGA, Hon. Emeka Onunze, on March 23, 2020, shut down the Akwatta Market, in response to the disturbing poor hygiene of the sub-section of the Ogbete Main Market, Enugu and its environmental consequences on the health and wellbeing of the people, especially at this moment of COVID-19 pandemic.

Shortly after that, the state government on March 27, 2020, closed all markets, land boundaries and inter-state transportation, which took effect from Tuesday, April 1, 2020.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, accompanied by the State Commissioner for Police, the Director of Department of State Services (DSS), among others, on April 1, 2020, monitored compliance with the directive at the Ogbete Main Market, Enugu, where the traders hailed the governor for his proactive measures.

Reacting to the development, some state residents said that the decisions by the Enugu State government and Enugu North LGA were timely and in the best interest of the public, stressing that any move to ensure strict adherence to social distancing protocol of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) should be supported.

A resident of New Haven, Enugu, Barr. Chukwuemeka Okeke, said that he was impressed that the state government has taken “decisive measures to ensure that this deadly virus called COVID-19 does not spread in this state”.

Barr. Okeke added that the closure of Akwatta Market by Enugu North LGA, to enable the Council upgrade the market to standard for conducive business transactions, is “a welcome development.”

Mrs. Ngozi Amanze, a trader at Abakpa Nike market said that “I support the decision of Gburugburu to close the markets to save our people from this dangerous disease they called Coronavirus. Even though it is not easy for you, but you have to be alive to make money. We thank the governor for protecting us.”

Another resident, Emmanuel Eke, warned that COVID-19 pandemic is a serious global health challenge that should not be played politics with, maintaining that “the actions of the Enugu State Government are in order and should be supported by all well-meaning residents of this state”.

Also speaking, the State Chairman of NANS, Comrade Romanus Ogene, said that the students are in support of all the precautionary measures by the state government to contain COVID-19 in the state, including the closure of Akwatta Market, Enugu, the entire Ogbete Main Market and other markets in the state.

Comrade Ogene stated that the students are worried that some self-serving politicians with their eyes on the 2023 elections have taken delight in twisting facts in Enugu State, using the social media platforms to mislead the public at the expense of truth.

“It has come to our knowledge that some politicians are now using some people to fabricate lies, all aimed at the next elections. This is condemnable and must be discouraged. Let these sponsors wait till 2023.”

The students, therefore, called on residents of Enugu State to be wary of the handiwork of such mischief makers and disregard media reports that residents of the state are unhappy with the closure of Akwatta Market and others. `

UPDATE!



…As Amb. Eze, others, commend gov’s decision

Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has declared that all precautionary measures put in place in the state to contain the spread of Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), remain in force, in the overall public interest.

The governor’s decision was contained in his Easter Message to the people of Enugu State, which largely dwelled on Coronavirus Disease pandemic ravaging the world.

Gov. Ugwuanyi appreciated the people of the state for their understanding and cooperation towards the state government’s efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

The governor pointed out that his administration was not unmindful of the difficulties and inconveniences the precautionary measures present, stressing that “they are undoubtedly in the best public interest”.

This came as a cross section of Enugu stakeholders commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for standing firm on the precautionary measures, in spite of pressure from various quarters and even when some states relaxed theirs.

Also in his Easter Message, Gov. Ugwuanyi commended the 17 Local Government Councils, stakeholders, political leaders and others, for complementing state government’s efforts in awareness campaigns and palliatives to rural communities.

He offered special commendation to health workers for their sacrifice to keep the people of the state safe from the pandemic and also lauded the security agencies, other relevant public institutions, for enforcing compliance and ensuring security of lives and property.

While thanking various religious groups and their leaders for their continued support, the governor urged ‘Ndi Enugu’: “Let us celebrate this Easter in supplications to God, staying safe and observing the various guidelines and directives released for the prevention of further spread of COVID-19”.

Reacting to Gov. Ugwuanyi’s stance on the precautionary measures, a leader of the state and member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BOT), Amb. Mrs. Justina Eze, said that the governor has “demonstrated the highest level of sensitivity and commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the people of our dear state”.

Amb. Eze applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his “focused and people-oriented leadership”, and for exhibiting the political will to contain COVID-19 in the state through various state government’s interventions and support for the state’s Multi-Sectoral Rapid Response Team for the pandemic as well as state residents.

Her words: “His Excellency, Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has proved to the people of Enugu State that he really cares for their health, safety and wellbeing.

“This bold stance by our governor that the enforcement of the precautionary measures to contain the spread of this deadly viral disease remains, even when some states, out of pressure, had relaxed theirs, is worthy of commendation and tells more about his commitment to our wellbeing.

“Since this pandemic reared its ugly head, we have seen our governor’s steadfastness to ensure that the people of Enugu State are safe and protected. His administration approved and released N330 million and additional N20 million to the state’s Multi-Sectoral Rapid Response Team to discharge their duties.

“We have seen the state government activate three Isolation centres in Enugu and Nsukka, and at the same time, carrying out massive reconstruction and rehabilitation of Colliery Hospital Enugu to be dedicated as an Infectious Disease Isolation and Treatment Centre.

“All educational institutions, markets, land boundaries, churches, among others, were closed to achieve the social distancing protocol, while the state Fire Service commenced the decontamination and fumigation of the state.

“I learnt that the state government is, at the moment, distributing palliatives, which include the state’s Coal City Rice, to the less privileged in our remote communities through the churches, the physically challenged and other organizations. All these are to ensure that this COVID-19 is contained in this state and I sincerely commend our governor”.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

Following the unfortunate death of the former Commissioner for Health, Enugu State, Prof. Anthony Ugochukwu, last week, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, on Thursday, swore in Associate Prof. Emmanuel Ikechukwu Obi, as the new health commissioner.

Prof. Obi, until his appointment was a Consultant Public Health Physician and Lecturer at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla and College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, respectively.

Swearing in the new Commissioner, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that “the compelling need to re-establish commanding leadership for State Health Care System under a Commissioner”, in the face of the escalating Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, “necessitated the urgent replacement of our deceased Commissioner for Health”.

The governor added that the action was taken pursuant to the confirmation of Associate Prof. Obi’s nomination as Commissioner by the Enugu State House of Assembly “conveyed in Enugu State House of Assembly letter reference No. HA/5/CHA/11/VOL.1V/146, dated 9th April, 2020.”

While congratulating Associate Prof. Obi on his appointment, Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed the hope "that you will bring your expertise and the requisite gravitas to bear on your new role as Commissioner for Health, Enugu State, especially in these unusual times.”

Responding, Prof. Obi expressed gratitude to the governor for finding him worthy to serve as the State Commissioner for Health and pledged to carry out his duties with “all diligence and the best of my ability”.

PROFILE: Dr. OBI., Emmanuel Ikechukwu

Dr. OBI., Emmanuel Ikechukwuhails from Ogonogo eji Ndiuno, Amaeze, Akpugo in Nkanu West LGA of Enugu State. Heis an Associate Professor of Public Health Medicine,Fellow of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria in Public Health (FMCPH), with a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH). Heis a Lecturer andHonorary Consultant,at the College of Medicine, University of Nigeria Nsukka and Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla Campus, where he currently serves as Senior Special Adviser to the Chief Medical Directorand Head of the Project and Partnerships Management Office. He has acted as CMD and as CMAC at different occasions, was the Training Coordinator of the Community Health Officer Training Program (CHOTP) and the Coordinating Consultant forAbagana Comprehensive Health Centre,an Outpost of UNTH.

At the College of Medicine, he is Research Fellow and pioneer Course Coordinatorof the Health Promotion and Communication Stream, at the Institute of Public Health and Pioneer Director of the Biomedical Communications Centre.He has headed and served creditably on various committees in his Department, Faculty, the College of Medicine and for the University. He has worked forFamily Health International (USA) in the GHAIN Project, and as National Consultant to agencies such asUSAID, John Snow Inc.,DFID, NPHCDA, HERFON, Preston Healthcare Consulting, ENSACA etc.

He isaffiliated to theNigerian Medical Association, Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN), Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), Health Development Guild of Nigeria (HDg-N),Nigerian Network of Health Trainers and Consultants,and the African Heritage Institution (AHI) locally. He isDeputy National Representativeof the International Association for Communications in Healthcare (EACH), and is the immediate past Chairman of Goshen Estate Residents Association (GERA), a registered Neighbourhood watchwhileMinistering to the Paramedics team at his local church. He is published in peer-reviewed journals, with papers delivered at local and international health conferences.Dr Obi is Married with children.

Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province (Anglican Communion) and Bishop of Enugu Anglican Diocese, Most. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuma, has denied media reports alleging that he said that “the Province will not shut any of its branches over Coronovirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic”.

Addressing newsmen at the Government House, Enugu after a closed-meeting with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ahmad AbdurRahman, Archbishop Chukwuma, said he was “very embarrassed to read the story in the newspaper and new media stressing that the story was untrue and misleading.

He, therefore, stated that he did not dare the government or the security agencies as was erroneously reported.

…Says property had no building approval, was earlier marked for demolition

Following the unfortunate collapse of a three-storey building under construction at Ezeluike Street, Olympic Layout, off One Day, Agbani Road, Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, on Sunday, April 5, 2020, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) has announced its decision to “immediately commence evaluation of the structural integrity and stability of all buildings within the State Capital Territory, from April 10, 2020”.

In a statement by the Executive Chairman of ECTDA, Dr. Josef Umunnakwe Onoh, the exercise will be conducted jointly by a technical team from the Agency and the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Enugu State branch.

Dr. Onoh, who disclosed that “ECTDA shall comply with the recommendations to be made at the end of the exercise”, pointed out that “where any structure(s) fails the integrity test the developer/owner shall be given a reasonable time not exceeding 60days to commence reconstruction and ensure that the structure is fit and stable for human habitation”.

The ECTDA Executive Chairman added that “in a case where no option is available such building(s) shall be demolished rather than put the lives of the occupants in danger”.

While disclosing that rescue teams from ECTDA, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), State Fire Service and Red Cross, among others, were on ground at the site of the incident for emergency operations, Dr. Onoh noted that no casualties were recorded.

He stated categorically that the collapsed three-storey building had no building approval from ECTDA and was consequently marked for demolition in July and November 2019, but: “Unfortunately, the developer continued construction in defiance of the Stop-Work order issued by our Agency”.

The full text of the statement reads in parts:

“On April 5, 2020, a three-storey building under construction collapsed at Ezeluike Street, Olympic Layout, off One Day, Agbani Road, Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State.

“The Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the State Fire Service and Red Cross, among others, were on ground for rescue operations and there were no casualties recorded.

“In view of the above, the ECTDA wishes to state categorically that the collapsed structure had no building approval and was consequently marked for Demolition in July and November 2019.

“Unfortunately, the developer continued construction in defiance of the Stop-Work order issued by our Agency.

“Consequently, a technical team from ECTDA and the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Enugu State branch, will commence immediate evaluation of the structural integrity and stability of all buildings within the State Capital Territory from April 10, 2020.

“ECTDA shall comply with the recommendations to be made at the end of the exercise and where any structure(s) fails the integrity test the developer/owner shall be given a reasonable time not exceeding 60days to commence reconstruction and ensure that the structure is fit and stable for human habitation.

“In a case where no option is available such building(s) shall be demolished rather than put the lives of the occupants in danger.

“Signed:

Dr. Josef Umunnakwe Onoh

Executive Chairman, ECTDA”.

Enugu Health Commissioner died of Chronic Kidney Disease, says family

The family of the late Commissioner for Health, Enugu State, Prof. Anthony Ugochukwu, has formally announced his death.

A statement signed on behalf of the family by Dr. Kingsley C. Ugochukwu, stated that the late Commissioner, whose sad event took place on the 3rd of April, 2020, died “after a prolonged but valiant battle with chronic kidney disease”.

According to the statement, late Prof. Ugochukwu “was until his death a Consultant Surgeon, Professor of Medicine, serving Commissioner for Health, Enugu State and immediate past Provost of ESUT College of Medicine, Enugu State”.

May his gentle soul rest in peace, Amen.

…Activates more Centres at ESUT-TH Parklane, Nsukka

…Shuts down Ogbete Market for non-compliance

Enugu State Government on Wednesday, April 1, 2020, in furtherance of its sustained efforts to strengthen all the proactive safety measures earlier instituted as well as the capacity of the State Health Care System to contain the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, among other milestone achievements, approved the use of the ultra-modern Enugu State Medical Diagnostic Centre as additional CO[b]VID-19 Isolation and Treatment Centre.

The state government also announced the activation of a fully functional Coronavirus Disease Isolation and Treatment Centre equipped with requisite facilities at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital Parklane, Enugu.[/b]

These decisions were contained in a statement released by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortunaya, shortly after Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi led a combined team of government officials and heads of security agencies in the state, to monitor the level of compliance with government’s order closing the markets and land boundaries as well as inspect some health facilities in the state.

According to the statement, the state government equally activated a brand new hospital at G.R.A Nsukka to serve a COVID-19 Isolation and Treatment Centre for Enugu North Senatorial Zone.

Prof. Ortuanya disclosed that the government has taken over and commenced extensive rehabilitation and reconstruction of the former Colliery Hospital, Enugu to expand the state capacity for Coronavirus Disease Isolation and Treatment, noting that it is collaborating with the Local Government Council Chairmen to identify and designate Isolation and Treatment Centres in their respective LGAs to ensure their preparedness in the event of possible spike in the COVID-19 burden within the state.

The statement equally ordered the full closure of the Ogbete Main Market for non-compliance with the state government’s order closing all market and land boundaries, which took effect from 6pm on Tuesday, March 31, 2020.

The full text of the statement below…


PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Enugu State Government has continued to deliver on her promise to strengthen the capacity of the State Health Care System to contain the Coronavirus Disease pandemic. Further to all the proactive safety measures earlier instituted for the above purpose, the following key milestones have also been successfully attained to date:

1. A fully functional Coronavirus Disease Isolation and Treatment Centre equipped with requisite facilities has been established in the premises of Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu. This followed State Executive Council approval for relocation of the center from Colliery Hospital Enugu on the heels of expert advisory from Stakeholders in health Care delivery in the State. However, this Centre remains a restricted area in line with international best practice.

2. Today, Enugu state Government activated a brand new hospital at Nsukka to serve as Coronavirus Disease Isolation and Treatment Centre for Nsukka (Enugu North Senatorial Zone)

3. The State Government has also approved the use of Enugu State Medical Diagnostic Center as additional Coronavirus Disease Isolation and Treatment Center while efforts are ongoing to equip it for its new use.

4. Enugu State Government has taken over and commenced extensive rehabilitation and reconstruction of the former Colliery Hospital, Enugu to expand the State capacity for Coronavirus Disease Isolation and Treatment.

5. The State Government is collaborating with all Local Government Council Chairmen to identify and designate Isolation and Treatment Centers in their respective Local Government Areas to ensure their preparedness in the event of possible spike in the Coronavirus Disease burden within the state.


6. You would recall that His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State ordered the closure of all markets in the State except those dealing on food items, Pharmaceuticals, Medical equipment and other basic items of daily domestic need with effect from 6pm on Tuesday, 31stMarch,2020. Following self-evident substantial non-compliance during compliance monitoring visit to Ogbete Main Market this afternoon by His Excellency, the Governor in the accompany of Security Chiefs -Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, Garrison Commander 82 Division Nigerian Army, Director, Department of State Services, Enugu State, Commandant, Nigerian Security and Civil DefenceCorps, Enugu State and Enugu State Chief Fire Officerordered full closure of the market forits immediate decontamination.

7. Sensitization and Monitoring of compliance in the State continues.

Enugu State Government will not rest on its oars in containing this ravaging Public Health challenge and appeals for maximum cooperationand understanding of all residents in the Stateat this critical time.

Enugu State is in the Hands of God.

Prof. Simon UchennaOrtuanya

Secretary to State Government

Enugu State

01/04/2020

Following complaints by some COVID-19 patients at the Infectious Disease Centre in Yaba that they are not being attended to as expected, the Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said it was not out of place for patients to get upset at the beginning of their isolation process as it was a new journey for them.

Abayomi, who stated this during the inspection of a 120-bed space isolation centre at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba Tuesday, said isolation wards were not normal wards where patients were allowed to interact with persons who are not infected.

He said: “When COVID-19 patients come into isolation wards, it usually takes one to two days before they get used to the operations at the centre.

“In normal wards, people will come greet you; healthcare providers will come check your blood pressure as often as possible, among others. But in an isolation ward, every time a doctor or nurse comes in there, he or she wears a N70, 000 outfit which can only be worn once.

“The healthcare providers will only come into the ward two, three or four times a day. A patient in that ward might be confused for the first day or two until they get accustomed to the fact they will not see their healthcare provider as often as in normal wards. There is a reason it is called isolation centre. But what is most important is that the patients are given qualitative care at any given time.”

He said he does not blame the husband of one of the patients who complained in a viral video, adding that it was usually expected within the first few days of commencing treatment at the centre.

He also noted that few days after admission, patients usually get comfortable with the isolation process, adding that every intervention they need are often provided within the period of the isolation.

On the 120-bed isolation centre at LUTH, he said he was pleased with the facility, adding that it contains most of the things needed for treatment of COVID-19 patients.

“If we eventually get a surge in the number of COVID-19 cases, the centre in LUTH, Onikan, Yaba, Gbagada, and other places will come in handy. That is why we are preparing these centres beforehand,” he added.

On his part, the Chief Medical Director, LUTH, Prof. Chris Bode, said the right staff had been trained on how to manage COVID-19 patients and that the hospital was ready whenever the state brings in patients.

“This is a first class isolation centre. We are glad for the support the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) also made. They gave us 60 beds. LUTH will support the state and the federal government in curbing the public health challenge,” he said.

Enugu Airport: Easter deadline suspended because of workers’ withdrawal from site for COVID-19, says Aviation Minister

The Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, Tuesday, announced suspension of ongoing rehabilitation work at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.

Senator Sirika, who made the announcement when he inspected the airport, said procurement was suspended because workers of the construction company, PW, handling the project left the site to be with their families owing to the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic ravaging the world.

The Minister who was accompanied by the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Capt. Hamisu Rabiu Yadudu, stated that “92-93 percent of the work at the Enugu airport has been completed”.

According to him, “the work would have been completed in a few weeks time, but the workers left to be with their families in view of the social distancing protocol.

“But considering that the construction workers have downed tools owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Government hereby officially announces suspension of procurement”.

He added that the remaining work at the airport will only require 15 days to be completed when the workers return to site.

Maintaining that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration was fully determined to complete the rehabilitation of Enugu airport to international standard before Easter, Senator Sirika explained that the circumstances the nation has found itself, regarding the escalating threat of COVID-19 globally, has made it impossible for the federal government to meet the deadline.

The Minister pointed out that though the federal government had closed the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, alongside others, as one of the proactive measures to contain the spread of the deadly disease, such necessary decision couldn’t have affected the ongoing work at the airport if not that the company’s workers downed tools.

Senator Sirika disclosed that the federal government introduced “glass mesh” in the Enugu airport runway to strengthen it and help in retaining the structure for a very long time, stressing that the new technology, before now, was only introduced at the Abuja airport.

His words: “Many other issues like the Cargo for this airport, other infrastructure, the terminal building under rehabilitation including the air conditioner system in the new international airport being built by the Chinese and of course the perimeter fencing, drainage and water supply, among others, will all be completed in this airport”.

He, therefore, commended Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, other South East Governors and stakeholders, for their sacrifice and commitment towards the rehabilitation of the Enugu airport and appealed for understanding on the part of the people of the Southeast geo-political zone, expressing hope that the issue of COVID-19 would be resolved soon.

Also present at the event include the Enugu Airport Manager, Mrs. Cecilia Oguama, the Chairman, South East Governors’ Forum Airport Rehabilitation/Palliative Works Committee, Engr. Chris Okoye, Enugu State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji, his information counterpart, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, among others.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##