A sophisticated fraud scheme using compromised emails, advance-payment fraud and money laundering has been uncovered by financial institutions and authorities across Germany, Ireland and the Netherlands, as part of a case coordinated by INTERPOL.

In mid-March, as a number of countries were going into lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak, German health authorities contracted two sales companies in Zurich and Hamburg to procure EUR 15 million worth of face masks. With a global shortage on medical supplies complicating usual business channels, the buyers followed new leads in the hopes of securing the masks.

It all started with an email address and website which appeared to be linked to a legitimate company in Spain selling face masks. Unbeknownst to the buyers, the site was a fake and their legitimate email addresses had been compromised.
Through email correspondence, the company initially claimed to have 10 million masks, only for the delivery to fall through. As consolation, they then referred the buyers to a ‘trusted’ dealer in Ireland. The Irish middleman promised to put them in touch with a different supplier, this time in the Netherlands.
Claiming to have a strong commercial relationship with the company, the man provided assurances that the alleged Dutch company would be able to supply the 10 million face masks. An agreement for an initial delivery of 1.5 million masks was made, in exchange for an up-front payment of EUR 1.5 million.
The buyers initiated a bank transfer to Ireland and prepared for delivery, which involved 52 lorries and a police escort to transport the masks from a warehouse in the Netherlands to the final destination in Germany.
Just before the delivery date, the buyers were informed that the funds had not been received and that an emergency transfer of EUR 880,000 straight to the Dutch supplier was required to secure the merchandise.

When the buyers realized they had been duped, they immediately contacted their bank in Germany, which in turn contacted INTERPOL’s Financial Crimes unit, setting off a race to intercept the funds and follow the money trail.
Banks, financial intelligence units and judicial authorities, as well as partner organizations Europol and EUROJUST, joined INTERPOL in the chase.

INTERPOL contacted its National Central Bureau in Dublin as well as the Irish bank. Prompt intervention by the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau allowed them to freeze the 1.5 million in the account and identify the Irish company involved.

The Dutch Fiscal Information and Investigation Service quickly tracked down the EUR 880,000 which had been transferred from the German company. Nearly EUR 500,000 of those funds had already been sent to the United Kingdom, all of which was destined for an account in Nigeria.
Europol activated its professional networks to reach key contacts in the banking sector. Thanks to an alert raised by investigators, the UK bank was able to recall the full amount. Those funds have now been returned to the Netherlands and frozen by authorities.

“They adapted their sales pitches to take advantage of strained supply chains and generate huge profits. I can only salute the quick work of both the private and public authorities involved. INTERPOL will continue its work on the case - and the many others like it - in close cooperation with all of our partners,” added the INTERPOL Chief.
The operation has already led to the arrest of two suspects in the Netherlands. More arrests are likely as specialized units continue to liaise closely with INTERPOL, as well as the public prosecutor and police forces in Traunstein (Germany) on leads generated by seized devices.

INTERPOL would like to remind members of the public to be vigilant as organized crime groups continue to adapt their activities to benefit from the global health crisis.
https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/interpol-fingers-nigerians-other.html?m=1

Ten patients who tested positive for coronavirus in Osun state have been discharged after recovering from the disease. Gboyega Oyetola, the governor, broke the news on Saturday evening.
https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/breaking-osun-discharges-10-covid-19.html?m=1

The US has become the first country in the world to record more than 2,000 coronavirus deaths in a single day.

Figures from Johns Hopkins University show 2,108 people died in the past 24 hours while there are now more than half a million confirmed infections.

The US could soon surpass Italy as the country with the most coronavirus deaths worldwide.
But experts on the White House Covid-19 task force say the outbreak is starting to level off across the US.

Dr Deborah Birx said there were good signs the outbreak was stabilising, but cautioned: "As encouraging as they are, we have not reached the peak."

President Donald Trump also said he expects the US to see a lower death toll than the initial predictions of 100,000 fatalities, adding: "We're seeing clear signs that our aggressive strategy is saving countless lives".

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/coronavirus-us-death-toll-passes-2000.html?m=1

Fourteen new cases of COVID19 have been reported in Nigeria: 13 in Lagos and 1 in Delta State As at 09:30 pm 9th April there are 288 confirmed cases of COVID19 reported in Nigeria. Fifty-one have been discharged with seven deaths.


FCT- 54 Osun- 20 Edo- 12 Oyo- 11 Bauchi- 6 Akwa Ibom- 5 Ogun- 4 Kaduna- 5 Enugu- 2 Ekiti- 2 Rivers-2 Kwara- 2 Delta- 2 Benue- 1 Ondo- 1 Katsina-1

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/new-cases-of-covid19-in-nigeria-total.html?m=1

President Muhammadu Buhari has handed a presidential pardon to a former Governor of old Bendel state, late Prof. Ambrose Alli and foremost nationalist, late Chief Anthony Enahoro.


The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola disclosed this at a world news conference on Thursday in Abuja.


He said that the gesture means that they were never convicted.

The annoucement was made known by Interior minister, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola in Abuja.

“I am pleased to inform you that five ex-convicts recommended for presidential pardon (by Buhari) have been so pardoned. They are late Prof Ambrose Ali, Late Chief Anthony Enahoro, ex Lt. Col. Moses Effiong, Major E.J. Olanrewaju and Ajayi Olusola Babalola. Prof Ali was the governor of the old Bendel State in the Second Republic (1978-1983) and a great progressive while Chief Enahoro was a foremost nationalist who moved the motion for Nigeria’s independence.
“I must thank and commend President Buhari for demonstrating great statesmanship by pardoning these people who were part of the great Nigerian history”, he said.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/buhari-pardons-late-anthony-enahoro.html?m=1

Sam Adeyemi, the senior pastor of the Daystar Christian Centre, has warned leaders to stop giving extreme interpretations to the Coronavirus epidemic ravaging the world.

Adeyemi said this following debates and conspiracy theories about 5G, the anti-Christ and coronavirus.


Some leaders are giving extreme interpretations to the crisis.I studied the last global pandemic before COVID-19 to give the right perspective.
The 1918 pandemic was the Spanish flu crisis which was from January 1918 to December 1920.
“There was a pandemic 100 years ago I read online because the interpretation that people are giving to this pandemic, they range from one extreme to the other.
“I don’t even want to go into the details now, but there’s quarrel on social media now, from 5G to 10G and other things. I decided to check, how it affects Nigeria and came across a research article by a history lecturer at the University at Birnin Kebbi.

In 1918 September, when the influenza epidemic hit, it was sea travel that spread the influenza around unlike air travel spreading Coronavirus now.
“The ships brought sick people into the Lagos port.
“I was shocked and screamed when I saw they closed churches, mosques, schools and markets in 1918. So, some of us now think it is the anti-christ that is at work, he does not want us to gather together and fellowship.

“We should just be grateful to God that we have internet now and we can be relating without meeting together. They shut churches in 1918.
“A leader should take a perspective like that, then calm people down and tell them there will be life after this thing,” he said.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/coronavirus-nigerian-pastor-sam-adeyemi.html?m=1

According to the NCDC....As at 09:30 pm 6th April, there are now about 238 confirmed cases.

For a breakdown of cases by state- http://covid19.ncdc.gov.ng

Lagos- 120
FCT- 48
Osun- 20
Oyo- 9
Edo- 11
Bauchi- 6
Akwa Ibom- 5
Kaduna- 5
Ogun- 4
Enugu- 2
Ekiti- 2
Rivers-2
Benue- 1
Ondo- 1
Kwara- 2

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/six-new-cases-of-covid19-have-been.html?m=1

Sad news...Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's mother has died after contracting coronavirus, the club have announced.

The club posted a tweet which read:


"The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep's mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting coronavirus. She was 82 years old.
https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/pep-guardiolas-mother-dies-after.html?m=1

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested Funke Akindele for hosting a party in contravention of the lockdown order in Lagos State, according to the Punch.

The Lagos State Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana, said that the actress had been taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba.

He told The PUNCH, “Yes, we have (arrested) Funke Akindele and we are looking for the others. She has been taken to SCID.”


It was learnt that policemen arrived in Amen Estate off Lekk-Epe Expressway in about three patrol vehicles

Akindele, popularly known as Jenifa, who is married to singer, Abdulrasheed Bello aka JJC Skillz, held a party in his honour on Saturday.




Singer, Azeez Fashola aka Naira Marley, also graced the party, which had over 20 others in attendance.

Thousands of Nigerians on social media called for the arrest Akindele, popularly called ‘Jenifa’.

The actress, who is said to be an ambassador for the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control and Dettol, has appeared in adverts calling on Nigerians to observe social distancing and hygiene.

She later apologised over the incident, saying most of those who attended the party were colleagues, who were living temporarily within the estate and could not return to their home states because of the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.


The Lagos Infection Diseases Regulations 2020 (the Regulations) prescribes a jail term of one month or N100,000 fine or both for persons found guilty of hosting gatherings or flouting the lockdown order.

It reads in part, “Where there is a violation of a close-down or stay at home order, security Agencies shall have power to arrest without warrant and may detain any person who violates the closedown or stay at home order for at least forty-eight (48) hours.


“Where the arrested person is found guilty, the person is liable to a fine of one Hundred Thousand Nara fine (N100,000.00) or one (1) month imprisonment or three (3) months Community service.”


Funke Akindele, has offered explanation on why she held a birthday bash for her husband despite the lockdown placed by President Muhammadu Buhari over the Coronavirus Disease.

Akindele offered the explanation in a video on her social media handles.

In a short accompanying note on her Twitter handle, she said: “I hear you all and I acknowledge all your honest feedback.
“I also thank you for your concerns, well wishes and calls.

“I am sorry and hope this video offers some explanation.

“Please stay safe. And God bless.”
She was blasted by Twitter users for organizing the bash during this lockdown period.

The award winning Nollywood actress threw a birthday party at their home in Amen Estate and Nigerian Twitter users have pointed fingers saying it’s a wrong move by the actress.

The Twitter users, who were particularly displeased owing to the current lockdown as everyone has been instructed to be indoors because of the dreaded Coronavirus ravaging the country, said the party should not have held.

It was coupled with the fact that Naira Marley just returned from the United Kingdom, and he was present at the sitting room birthday party which had quite number of people in attendance.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/police-arrest-funke-akindele-for.html?m=1

Archbishop Samson Benjamin has called on the federal government not to accept any form of aid or personnel from China in efforts to combat the the COVID-19 pandemic.

The cleric, in an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, a copy of which was made available to newsmen on Saturday, stated that accepting or purchasing any equipment or personnel from China to fight the coronavirus disease would be a very risky venture for Nigeria, and by extension the African continent.

Benjamin was reacting to the announcement by the Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, who disclosed on Friday that Nigeria was expecting a medical team from China to aid in the fight against COVID-19.

He also stated that some Chinese companies in Nigeria had donated medical supplies to support the country in its fight against COVID-19.

But Benjamin, who is the founder of the Resurrection Praise Ministry Worldwide, said such a move would be counter-productive and should be jettisoned, as it could worsen Nigeria’s situation.

Many Nigerians, he contented were not comfortable with the move and would voice out their reservations in given the opportunity.

He called on government to always listen to the voice people they lead, while coming up with policies for the country.

“Many advanced countries of the world have rejected these things being brought to Nigeria from China because they were found to be defective, yet Nigeria wants to accept them with open hands

“This virus originated from China, yet their factories have miraculously reopened to manufacture these things for other people.

“Do we have the capacity to test these materials being brought to us to be sure they are safe for our use?”, he asked.

“Yes, we may need help in fighting this pandemic, but China is the ‘wrongest’ place to look up to now at this point”.

While commending the government, at the federal and state levels for the efforts so put in place to fight the COVID-19 disease, the Archbishop said there was a need to contain and control the virus instead of taking the risk of throwing the doors open for a possible further infections.

According to him, the nation’s health system would not be able to withstand a full-blown outbreak of the virus, hence the need to exercise more caution before accepting any aid from China.

“There are claims from many quarters that this virus was a deliberate sent out. Though not confirmed, Nigeria should realize that as a leader in Africa, whatever it does would be emulated by other African nations. So we have to be very careful before taking such steps”, he stated.

He lamented that proponents of the China alternative may just be pushing it for selfish reasons, and said “they forget that money would be useless to them in the situation they want to create, if the disease becomes widespread in Nigeria”.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/archbishop-samson-warns-president.html?m=1

Make dem nor come

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, on Friday, said the Federal Government could extend the 14-day lockdown should Lagosians and residents of Abuja and Ogun State not behave themselves.

He said, “If we don’t behave ourselves, there is a likelihood that the lockdown will be extended, but if we behave ourselves, there might not be an extension and I hope we do so.

“If we stay at home for two weeks and we are doing everything we are supposed to do, we should be able to effectively contain the disease.
“Therefore, my appeal to Nigerians is that they should obey the directive on social distancing, personal hygiene and shun gatherings; after two weeks, we will resume our normal life.

“But if they think it is a joke, then we may have to stay at home more than the two weeks.”

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/behave-yourselves-or-lockdownll-be.html?m=1

Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced that four patients of coronavirus (COVID-19) have been discharged from the Infectious Disease Hospital after testing negative.

Babajide shared what he termed “more great news” on his Twitter handle. This brings the total number of recovered persons from the coronavirus disease to 23.

“More great news from our Infectious Disease Hospital as 4 patients; 3 females and 1 male have recovered fully, tested negative twice and have been discharged. This gives us a lot of hope as we continue to listen to our health experts and provide the resources to beat #COVID19.

“With the newly discharged patients, we now have a total of 23 people that have recovered from #COVID19 in Lagos. Big thanks to our health workers working hard during this time. Please continue social distancing to avoid becoming the weak link in our collective efforts,” Sanwo-Olu tweeted.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/lagos-discharges-4-patients-of.html?m=1

Six new cases of coronavirus have been recorded in Osun state.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control broke the news on Twitter on Friday.

“Six new cases of #COVID19 have been reported in Osun State, Nigeria,” it said.

“As at 11:00 am 3rd April there are 190 confirmed cases of #COVID19 reported in Nigeria. Twenty have been discharged with two deaths.”




The cases are spread across 13 states in the country.

Out of the 190 confirmed cases, Lagos state, which is the epicentre of the disease, has 98 cases; FCT, 38; Osun, 20, and Oyo, eight cases.

Akwa Ibom state has five cases; Ogun and Edo states have four each; Kaduna, four; Bauchi, three.


Enugu and Ekiti states have two cases each while Rivers and Benue states have recorded one each.

In Africa, over 7,000 cases have been recorded with 284 deaths spread across 50 countries.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/nigeria-records-six-new-coronavirus.html?m=1

Same question all over

Ok

Lol

Spain said on Thursday, that it recorded 950 people dying in last 24 hours, the highest number of deaths of any country in one day.

This was before France released a death record of 1,355 that eclipsed it.

Italy’s deaths of 919 people on March 27, was formerly the highest in the world in a single day.

The number of confirmed Spanish cases rose from 102,136 on Wednesday to 110,238 – an 8% rise that is similar to the rate recorded in previous days, BBC reports.


Authorities believe the virus is now peaking and say they expect to see a drop in figures in the days ahead.

“We continue with an increase of around 8%. This points, as we have already seen, to a stabilisation in the data that we’re registering,” María José Sierra, from the Spanish health ministry’s emergency co-ordination unit, said at a news conference.

Spain, the second-worst hit nation in terms of deaths, has also lost nearly 900,000 jobs.

The US on Thursday said it saw a record 6.6 million new unemployment benefit claims.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/04/spain-sets-new-world-record-for.html?m=1

Lol

Nawa

Lol

Twenty new cases of COVID19 have been reported in Nigeria; 13 in Lagos, 4 in FCT, 2 in Kaduna and 1 in Oyo State

As at 09:00 pm 30th March there are 131 confirmed cases of COVID19 reported in Nigeria with 2 deaths.
https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/twenty-new-cases-of-covid19-have-been.html?m=1

The death toll from the coronavirus pandemic in Italy took a level up by 812
with a registered 4,050 new cases.


Total death is now 11,591, while the total number of infections jump past 100,000.


More than 800 people died in Spain over the last 24 hours.

Meanwhile in the US now has 139,000 confirmed infections, more than any other country in the world.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/coronavirus-italy-reports-812-deaths-in.html?m=1

Nawa

Nigerian Final Year WMU student who died of COVID-19 was refused test, sister says

A 25-year-old Western Michigan University student from Detroit died Saturday after contracting the coronavirus.

The student, Bassey Offiong, was expected to graduate with a chemical engineering degree in a few weeks.

His sister, Asari Offiong, said her brother told her he was turned down several times for the coronavirus test in the Kalamazoo area while living off-campus despite having fever, fatigue and shortness of breath.

"I told him to ask them to test him," Offiong said. "He said they refused to test him."

One medical staffer told him he had bronchitis, she said. She said he had no known prior health issues. Offiong said she wasn't ready to disclose the locations where he was denied a test.

He was hospitalized at Beaumont in Royal Oak and spent the last week on a ventilator in their intensive care unit. She called her "baby brother" sweet and humble and a "gentle giant." She last saw him a week ago.

"I know God has him in his presence," Offiong said. "He loved God."

He was a member of the Christ the King Miracle Church in Redford Township.

Bassey Offiong's dream was to start his own organic makeup line with Loreal that would enhance women's beauty, his sister said. He was a graduate of Renaissance High School in Detroit.

"He's just someone who thinks so big," she said.

Western Michigan University President Edward Montgomery said Offiong had "enormous potential."

"On behalf of the entire Bronco community, I want to extend my deepest condolences to his entire family, including his sister, Asari, who has been generous in communicating with us regularly," Montgomery said in a press release from university and Kalamazoo County health officials. "They are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

University officials announced Friday that three students had tested positive for the virus.

"We urge everyone to help us fight community spread by following the Governor’s executive order," said Jim Rutherford, health officer for the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department.

"Stay home and, if you must go out for essential items, stay safe by taking preventative measures."

Source: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2020/03/29/western-michigan-university-student-weeks-graduation-dies-covid-19/2936057001/

Pastor E.A. Adeboye has asked his followers not to panic amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, said this while preaching to his members from the pulpit.

He said: "So, I've told you, the whole world is going to be on compulsive holiday because God wants to prove that he is still in charge.

"It seems that is already coming to pass as you can see. Then you should believe also that you should relax. I'm talking to those of you that are my children.

"No evil is going to come near you at all.

"When I spoke to my Daddy about my pain concerning all the people who are dying and who may yet die, he assured me that only those whose time to die has come will die.

"Only those whose appointed time has come will die.

"And so, if your own appointed time hasn't come, relax. Enjoy your holidays."
https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/only-those-whose-time-has-come-will-die.html?m=1

Italy reported 756 new coronavirus deaths on Sunday taking the total number of fatalities to 10,779 as it continues to pay the heaviest price in the world from the contagion.

Spain's health ministry announced 838 new coronavirus deaths, marking the country's highest daily jump in fatalities and bringing its total to 6,528.

In New York, the death toll surged by 237 in 24 hours, and the state announced 7,195 new cases.

Worldwide, the number of cases has reached more than 710,000. Some 149,000 people have recovered, while more than 33,000 have died.
https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/italy-coronavirus-deaths-rise-by-756.html?m=1

ADDRESS BY H.E. MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ON THE COVID- 19 PANDEMIC SUNDAY 29TH MARCH, 2020


1. Fellow Nigerians,

2. From the first signs that Coronavirus, or COVID-19 was turning into an epidemic and was officially declared a world-wide emergency, the Federal Government started planning preventive, containment and curative measures in the event the disease hits Nigeria.

3. The whole instruments of government are now mobilized to confront what has now become both a health emergency and an economic crisis.

4. Nigeria, unfortunately, confirmed its first case on 27th February 2020. Since then, we have seen the number of confirmed cases rise slowly.

5. By the morning of March 29th, 2020, the total confirmed cases within Nigeria had risen to ninety-seven.

6. Regrettably, we also had our first fatality, a former employee of PPMC, who died on 23rd March 2020. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family in this very difficult time. We also pray for quick recovery for those infected and undergoing treatment.

7. As of today, COVID-19 has no cure. Scientists around the world are working very hard to develop a vaccine.

8. We are in touch with these institutions as they work towards a solution that will be certified by international and local medical authorities within the shortest possible time.

9. For now, the best and most efficient way to avoid getting infected is through regular hygienic and sanitary practices as well as social distancing.

10. As individuals, we remain the greatest weapon to fight this pandemic. By washing our hands regularly with clean water and soap, disinfecting frequently used surfaces and areas, coughing into a tissue or elbow and strictly adhering to infection prevention control measures in health facilities, we can contain this virus.

11. Since the outbreak was reported in China, our Government has been monitoring the situation closely and studying the various responses adopted by other countries.

12. Indeed, the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) was one of ten global health leaders invited by the World Health Organisation to visit China and understudy their response approach. I am personally very proud of Dr Ihekweazu for doing this on behalf of all Nigerians.


13. Since his return, the NCDC has been implementing numerous strategies and programs in Nigeria to ensure that the adverse impact of this virus on our country is minimized. We ask all Nigerians to support the work the Federal Ministry of Health and NCDC are doing, led by the Presidential Task Force.

14. Although we have adopted strategies used globally, our implementation programs have been tailored to reflect our local realities.

15. In Nigeria, we are taking a two step approach.

16. First, to protect the lives of our fellow Nigerians and residents living here and second, to preserve the livelihoods of workers and business owners to ensure their families get through this very difficult time in dignity and with hope and peace of mind.

17. To date, we have introduced healthcare measures, border security, fiscal and monetary policies in our response. We shall continue to do so as the situation unfolds.

18. Some of these measures will surely cause major inconveniences to many citizens. But these are sacrifices we should all be willing and ready to make for the greater good of our country.

19. In Nigeria’s fight against COVID-19, there is no such thing as an overreaction or an under reaction. It is all about the right reaction by the right agencies and trained experts.

20. Accordingly, as a Government, we will continue to rely on guidance of our medical professionals and experts at the Ministry of Health, NCDC and other relevant agencies through this difficult time.

21. I therefore urge all citizens to adhere to their guidelines as they are released from time to time.

22. As we are all aware, Lagos and Abuja have the majority of confirmed cases in Nigeria. Our focus therefore remains to urgently and drastically contain these cases, and to support other states and regions in the best way we can.

23. This is why we provided an initial intervention of fifteen billion Naira (N15b) to support the national response as we fight to contain and control the spread.

24. We also created a Presidential Task Force (PTF) to develop a workable National Response Strategy that is being reviewed on a daily basis as the requirements change. This strategy takes international best practices but adopts them to suit our unique local circumstances.

25. Our goal is to ensure all States have the right support and manpower to respond immediately.

26. So far, in Lagos and Abuja, we have recruited hundreds of adhoc staff to man our call centers and support our tracing and testing efforts.



27. I also requested, through the Nigeria Governors Forum, for all State Governments to nominate Doctors and Nurses who will be trained by the NCDC and Lagos State Government on tactical and operational response to the virus in case it spreads to other states.

28. This training will also include medical representatives from our armed forces, paramilitary and security and intelligence agencies.

29. As a nation, our response must be guided, systematic and professional. There is a need for consistency across the nation. All inconsistencies in policy guidelines between Federal and State agencies will be eliminated.

30. As I mentioned earlier, as at this morning we had ninety-seven confirmed cases. Majority of these are in Lagos and Abuja. All the confirmed cases are getting the necessary medical care.

31. Our agencies are currently working hard to identify cases and people these patients have been in contact with.

32. The few confirmed cases outside Lagos and Abuja are linked to persons who have travelled from these centres.

33. We are therefore working to ensure such inter state and intercity movements are restricted to prevent further spread.




34. Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC, I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th March 2020. This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two States.

35. All citizens in these areas are to stay in their homes. Travel to or from other states should be postponed. All businesses and offices within these locations should be fully closed during this period.

36. The Governors of Lagos and Ogun States as well as the Minister of the FCT have been notified. Furthermore, heads of security and intelligence agencies have also been briefed.

37. We will use this containment period to identify, trace and isolate all individuals that have come into contact with confirmed cases. We will ensure the treatment of confirmed cases while restricting further spread to other States.

38. This order does not apply to hospitals and all related medical establishments as well as organizations in health care related manufacturing and distribution.

39. Furthermore, commercial establishments such as;
a. food processing, distribution and retail companies;
b. petroleum distribution and retail entities,
c. power generation, transmission and distribution companies; and
d. private security companies are also exempted.

40. Although these establishments are exempted, access will be restricted and monitored.

41. Workers in telecommunication companies, broadcasters, print and electronic media staff who can prove they are unable to work from home are also exempted.

42. All seaports in Lagos shall remain operational in accordance with the guidelines I issued earlier. Vehicles and drivers conveying essential cargoes from these Ports to other parts of the country will be screened thoroughly before departure by the Ports Health Authority.

43. Furthermore, all vehicles conveying food and other essential humanitarian items into these locations from other parts of the country will also be screened thoroughly before they are allowed to enter these restricted areas.

44. Accordingly, the Hon. Minister of Health is hereby directed to redeploy all Port Health Authority employees previously stationed in the Lagos and Abuja Airports to key roads that serve as entry and exit points to these restricted zones.

45. Movements of all passenger aircraft, both commercial and private jets, are hereby suspended. Special permits will be issued on a needs basis.

46. We are fully aware that such measures will cause much hardship and inconvenience to many citizens. But this is a matter of life and death, if we look at the dreadful daily toll of deaths in Italy, France and Spain.

47. However, we must all see this as our national and patriotic duty to control and contain the spread of this virus. I will therefore ask all of us affected by this order to put aside our personal comfort to safeguard ourselves and fellow human beings. This common enemy can only be controlled if we all come together and obey scientific and medical advice.

48. As we remain ready to enforce these measures, we should see this as our individual contribution in the war against COVID-19. Many other countries have taken far stricter measures in a bid to control the spread of the virus with positive results.

49. For residents of satellite and commuter towns and communities around Lagos and Abuja whose livelihoods will surely be affected by some of these restrictive measures, we shall deploy relief materials to ease their pains in the coming weeks.

50. Furthermore, although schools are closed, I have instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development to work with State Governments in developing a strategy on how to sustain the school feeding program during this period without compromising our social distancing policies. The Minister will be contacting the affected States and agree on detailed next steps.


51. Furthermore, I have directed that a three month repayment moratorium for all TraderMoni, MarketMoni and FarmerMoni loans be implemented with immediate effect.


52. I have also directed that a similar moratorium be given to all Federal Government funded loans issued by the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and the Nigeria Export Import Bank.

53. For on-lending facilities using capital from international and multilateral development partners, I have directed our development financial institutions to engage these development partners and negotiate concessions to ease the pains of the borrowers.

54. For the most vulnerable in our society, I have directed that the conditional cash transfers for the next two months be paid immediately. Our Internally displaced persons will also receive two months of food rations in the coming weeks.

55. We also call on all Nigerians to take personal responsibility to support those who are vulnerable within their communities, helping them with whatever they may need.

56. As we all pray for the best possible outcome, we shall continue planning for all eventualities.


57. This is why I directed that all Federal Government Stadia, Pilgrims camps and other facilities be converted to isolation centers and makeshift hospitals.

58. My fellow Nigerians, as a Government, we will avail all necessary resources to support the response and recovery. We remain committed to do whatever it takes to confront COVID-19 in our country.

59. We are very grateful to see the emerging support of the private sector and individuals to the response as well as our development partners.

60. At this point, I will ask that all contributions and donations be coordinated and centralized to ensure efficient and impactful spending. The Presidential Task Force remains the central coordinating body on the COVID-19 response.

61. I want to assure you all that Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies with a role to play in the outbreak response are working hard to bring this virus under control.

62. Every nation in the world is challenged at this time. But we have seen countries where citizens have come together to reduce the spread of the virus.

63. I will therefore implore you again to strictly comply with the guidelines issued and also do your bit to support Government and the most vulnerable in your communities.


64. I will take this opportunity to thank all our public health workforce, health care workers, port health authorities and other essential staff on the frontlines of the response for their dedication and commitment. You are true heroes.

65. I thank you all for listening. May God continue to bless and protect us all.


President Muhammadu Buhari
29th March 2020.
https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/full-speech-of-muhammadu-buhari.html?m=1

President Buhari has declared curfew in Lagos, Abuja and Ogun State as part of measures to curtail the spread of Coronavirus in Nigeria. He said this during a nationwide broadcast on Sunday.

''Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC, I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th March 2020. This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two States.

All citizens in these areas are to stay in their homes. Travel to or from other states should be postponed. All businesses and offices within these locations should be fully closed during this period.



The Governors of Lagos and Ogun States as well as the Minister of the FCT have been notified. Furthermore, heads of security and intelligence agencies have also been briefed.
We will use this containment period to identify, trace and isolate all individuals that have come into contact with confirmed cases. We will ensure the treatment of confirmed cases while restricting further spread to other States.

This order does not apply to hospitals and all related medical establishments as well as organizations in health care related manufacturing and distribution.
Furthermore, commercial establishments such as;
a. food processing, distribution and retail companies;
b. petroleum distribution and retail entities,
c. power generation, transmission and distribution companies; and
d. private security companies are also exempted.


Although these establishments are exempted, access will be restricted and monitored.
Workers in telecommunication companies, broadcasters, print and electronic media staff who can prove they are unable to work from home are also exempted.
All seaports in Lagos shall remain operational in accordance with the guidelines I issued earlier. Vehicles and drivers conveying essential cargoes from these Ports to other parts of the country will be screened thoroughly before departure by the Ports Health Authority.
Furthermore, all vehicles conveying food and other essential humanitarian items into these locations from other parts of the country will also be screened thoroughly before they are allowed to enter these restricted areas.
Accordingly, the Hon. Minister of Health is hereby directed to redeploy all Port Health Authority employees previously stationed in the Lagos and Abuja Airports to key roads that serve as entry and exit points to these restricted zones.
Movements of all passenger aircraft, both commercial and private jets, are hereby suspended. Special permits will be issued on a needs basis'' he said
https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/breaking-president-buhari-declares.html?m=1

The South African controversial evangelist, Pastor Paseka Motsoeneng popularly known as Pastor Mboro, has expressed his readiness to go after the beastly Coronavirus demon in hell to face it head-on.

Pastor Mboro stated that he is ready to take the bold move and make the dangerous journey to hell on condition that he is given a sum of 100, 000 USD to cover his transport logistics.
“I am ready to save mankind, I have seen a vision of how the Corona demon looks like and I will defeat it.” Pastor Mboro confidently remarked.
Pastor Mboro said pointed out that the world needs to waste no more time in fighting something they did not have any clue about, emphasizing that with him lay the remedy for this most upsetting pandemic only and only if he received the sum amounting to the figure he quoted above.


The preacher categorically explained that having dealt with more severe cases before successfully, he was certain it would not take him long to bring the cure for the Coronavirus if he went after the right demon in hell.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/pastor-mboro-ready-to-travel-to-hell.html?m=1

An additional 5,974 infections brought to 92,472 the number of people who have officially tested positive for Covid-19 in Italy since the crisis began last month.

Italy reports 889 new deaths
Italy's death toll from the novel coronavirus shot past 10,000 on Saturday with 889 new deaths, the country's civil protection service said.
The toll in Italy, which has suffered more deaths than any other country, now stands at 10,023.

An additional 5,974 infections brought to 92,472 the number of people who have officially tested positive for Covid-19 in Italy since the crisis began last month.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/italys-coronavirus-death-toll-tops.html?m=1

Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State has tested positive for COVID-19, popularly known as coronavirus.

https://www.gripng.com/2020/03/breaking-el-rufai-tests-positive-for.html?m=1