Covid19 Relief Package: Our Distribution Strategy'II Help Reach More Households In Agege -Egunjobi

...Rolls Out Contact of CDAs, others, As Group monitor the sharing process

AgegePulse Magazine

The Executive Chairman, Agege Local Govt., Alh. Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi JP, today  distributed foodstuffs to indigent residents as a palliative measure to cushion economic effect of COVID-19 stay at home policy.

Egunjobi in a statement said that, his administration has continually embarked on sensitisation programmes on the deadly disease about residents' personal hygiene and social distancing in curtailing the spread of the pandemic.

He added that, he had carried out fumigation and disinfection exercise across the community earning him the sobriquet, "Mr. Terminator".

"We have also provided several palliative measures to ensure the indigents in our midst are not totally foodless during this stay at home directives by the state government".

According to him, "Today, another token effort is being made to support indigent/vulnerable families with 400 50kg bags of rice, 150 50kg bags of beans, 600 2kg bags of Semovita, 150 bags of garri, and 100 gallons of cooking oil to be shared within the community.


On distribution, "We have implore the leadership of Community Development Associations under the supervision of Baales who we have already been taken care of, are tasked with the distribution of the foodstuffs"

Speaking with the Chairman of Community Developments Committee, CDC, Alhaji Ayo Adesiyan said the distribution channels were well mapped out to ensure almost every homes within Agege community have it share of Egunjobi's food Relief package.

"To start with having considered the league of imam, Agege Christain Association, CAN, Agege Chapter, Traditionalists, Artisan with numbers of 50kg bags of Rice, Semovita, Beans, Garri and Vegetable Oil to share among themselves.

"For example, Ward A, comprising of 6 CDAs are going home with 30bags of 50kg of Rice, 15bags of Beans, 36 bags of Semovita, 6 bags of Garri among others.

On the part of monitoring, a group, Voice of Agege who volunteered to be part of the sharing process to ensure the relief materials get to the direct vulnerable residents of Agege.

The group said we have gotten contacts of CDAs in various Communities to monitor the sharing formula.

Morcas CDA: Alhaji S.K. Amao, 08084252006, Ire Akari CDA, Alhaji Sikiru Odebiyi, 07066312539, Alhaja Sifau CDA, Wale Sana, 08032944935, Manjoro CDA, Ojedele Taofeek, 08055908550, Iloro CDA, Alhaji Salawu, 070871992240, Onipetesi CDA, F.S. Ogundimu, Otubu CDA, Chief Mrs. Olasoji, 08160436611


Others include, CAN Association, 07023210860, League of Imam, 08023210860, Artisans, 08023591505 it was also need that all Baales in various communities are part of the monitoring team.

"We believe with this strategy if duly distributed without greed, and with fear of God majority of vulnerable households in Agege will have access to this food relief package". Egunjobi concluded.

Commissioner for waterfront Infrastructure, Arch. Ahmed Kabiru, APC Leaders, Chief Safari Adaranijo, Chief BIsi Odeomu, Agege APC Party Chairman, Alhaji  Tunde Disco,  Agege Women Leader, Alhaja Aminat Abdulsalam were all present.

Others include, Executive Vice Chairman, Prince Abiodun Ogunji, Agege SLG, Hon. Gbenga Abiola Agbelebu, Leader of the House, Alhaji Muyideen Kola Anigbajumo and other councilors, Supervising Councilors, Council Management, CDC Chairmen, Alhaji Ayo Adesiyan, Alhaji moruf Omodele among others.

Lagos RRS Impounds 13 Vehicles … Intensifies Enforcement of Stay-At-Home Directive

AgegePulse Magazine

… Intensifies Enforcement of Stay-At-Home Directive

The Commander, Rapid Response Squad (RRS), DCP Olatunji Disu, on Wednesday, led a team of Police Officers to impound 13 vehicles in Alapere area of the metropolis for not complying with the stay-at-home order  of the Federal Government, just as the team dispersed a group of over 150 youths engaged in physical exercise at Ketu area of Lagos.

Speaking on the exercise, DCP Disu stated that the impounded vehicles, which included three cars, seven buses and three 4-Wheel Drive Jeeps, were caught carrying passengers without a valid excuse, thereby violating the directive of the Government.

While noting that motorists on essential services and those with a valid reason for being on the road despite the directive were allowed passage, Disu said all the vehicles impounded have since been handed over to Alapere Divisional Police Station for further investigation.

The Commander explained that his men had earlier dispersed over 150 youths who had equally converged in front of Samuel Gbadebo Adegboyega Village, beside the Apostolic Church, Alapere, claiming to be residents of the village and Ketu-Alapere axis undertaking early morning physical exercise.

Disu disclosed that the State Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu had, on Tuesday evening, directed the intensification and enforcement of the stay-at-home directive, reiterating the determination of the RRS to ensure that Lagosians comply with the government directive.

Why we withdrew charges against Naira Marley, Gbadamosi ― LASG

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government today gave conditions for withdrawing the charge brought against controversial hip-hop star, Azeez Fashola popularly known as Naira Marley, former Lagos governorship aspirant, Babatunde Gbadamosi and his wife Folashade for flouting the state Coronavirus social distancing directive.

Naira Marley was represented in court by Damilola Ayinde-Marshall alongside Afeez Olabisi while Olawale Akoni SAN alongside Dr Bayo Adaralegbe represented the Babatunde Gbadamosi.

Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa SAN alongside O. Awonuga represented the 3rd def, Folasade Gbadamosi.

After the announcement of appearance, the DPP, Yakub Oshaola told the court that even though the state has filed a charge before the court, …a few minutes before the court sat, the AG & Comm for Justice, Moyo Onigbanjo SAN forwarded a directive to him that having considered the remorsefulness of the three defendants, he has considered diverting the case out of court based on the defendants fulfilling three conditions.

(1) They have to write a formal apology to the Government of Lagos State which will solidify the remorsefulness shown by them.

(2) They have to give an undertaking in writing that they will continue to comply with the directives of Mr President and Mr Governor which is the subject matter of the case before the court.

(3) In view of the danger which the state believes they’ve put themselves by attending a gathering exceeding 20 persons, they must agree to go on 14 days isolation to protect other members of the public from any likely danger.

Mr Oshoala also submitted that this is absolutely necessary “in view of the fact that some individuals who travelled from endangered countries where present at the party. He stressed that the state is not a persecutor but it is always ready to enforce the laws that benefit the interest of the public.

“If they agree to these conditions, the 4 count charge will be withdrawn and that will be the end of the matter. We will keep it in abeyance.” That’s our submission.

In his submission, Akoni said: On behalf of the 2nd def, we wish to express our appreciation to the state, the DPP and to confirm to the court that we accept the three conditions.

On his part, Adegboruwa said: ‘On behalf of the 3rd def, we express our appreciation to his excellency, Mr President and the Governor, the AG, The DPP & his team, the Police and most of all the court.

The third def is a law-abiding citizen and accepts all that three conditions as stipulated by the DPP.

Also speaking, Ayinde-Marshall said: “On behalf of the first defendant, we say a big thank you to the police, the President, Mr Gov and the DPP. My client is a law-abiding citizen too and a strict supporter of government policies.

We undertake that we will fulfill the three conditions given to them.


Vanguard

Flash: Lagos Records death of another COVID-19 patient

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State has recorded another COVID-19 patient dies in Lagos
A 66-year-old citizen of the United Kingdom has died of the deadly of coronavirus, COVID-19, in Lagos State.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, made this known via Twitter handle on Wednesday.

He also confirmed that cases of coronavirus had increased to 130 in the state.

He tweeted, “Lagos recorded another #COVID-19 related death: a 66-year-old Briton, who travelled from India via Dubai to Lagos on 17th of March, 2020.“As of 7th of April, 2020, there are 10 new cases of #COVID-19 confirmed.”

“The total of #COVID-19 cases in Lagos rises to 130.“Another #COVID-19 patient was discharged after full recovery. This brings the number of discharged patients to 32.”

Food Relief Package is for the Indigent, Vulnerable Only – LASG

AgegePulse Magazine

In the past few days, the social media have been awash with biased opinions about the welfare package initiative of the Lagos State Government to support  the indigent and the vulnerable.

The welfare package was one of the various decisions taken by the Lagos State Executive Council to ease the discomfort thrust on Lagosians  by the lockdown announced by the Federal Government, especially on those who earn daily income.

It has become necessary to reiterate the modus of distribution of the welfare package as well as the category of beneficiaries of the  government’s compassionate gesture, which is deliberately being distorted by mischief-makers.

For the avoidance of doubt, the first stage of the welfare package was designed to cater for 200,000 households, comprising of a father, mother  and four children across the 20 local governments and the 37 local council development authorities. It is a misconception that it was meant for all Lagosians. No.

All aged residents who are above 60 years old and registered with the Lagos State Residents’ Registration Agency, LASRRA, were sent text messages and requested to confirm the accuracy of their details, such as name and home address. They have since responded to the text messages so as to benefit from the package.

The food relief materials for the above 60 group are being delivered directly to the beneficiaries by representatives of the State Government based on the data with the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency.

The other category of beneficiaries comprises the indigent and vulnerable within the various communities at the grassroots.

As part of strategies to ensure that the relief packages reach the deserving beneficiaries, the State government involved Community Development Associations and their Committees as well as Community and Religious Leaders to collate the names of community members who deserve to benefit from the palliative measure. The CDAs were also tasked to ensure the items were judiciously distributed.

As part of strategies to ensure that the relief packages reach the deserving beneficiaries, the State government involved Community Development Associations and their Committees as well as Community and Religious Leaders to collate the names of community members who deserve to benefit from the palliative measure.The CDAs were also tasked to ensure the items were judiciously distributed.

The government is constantly monitoring the process and has observed some lapses that gave rise to the negative comments on some social media platforms.

The issues are being addressed to fine-tune the strategies adopted in getting the food items across to the intended recipients of the package.

In all, about 100,000 households across the State have been reached since the exercise started.

Lagosians should remain confident that the State Government is working to ensure that the lapses are Lagosians should remain confident that the State Government is working to ensure that the lapses are addressed so that the vulnerable  who Governor Babajide Sanwo- Olu said will not suffer will benefit from this laudable  intervention.from this laudable  intervention.

COVID-19: Agege Born Football Star, Sly, Felix Ajanaku, Chief Imam Ogba put smiles on the faces of their People

AgegePulse Magazine

A maxim that says "Givers Never Lack" has always been the portion of the following individuals, the Chief Imam of Ogba Central Mosque, Alhaji Rafiu Salaudeen Metta and that of Mr. Felix Ajanaku who has contributed to the development of our dear community in his own capacity.

Felix Ajanaku fondly called "Lasu" recently distributed scores of relief packages as parts of his support to cushion the effect of stay at home directives in preventing the spread of coronavirus in Agege community.

"This Relief materials  is to give succour to the elderlies, widows and indigents who feel the impact of this stay at home directives directly". Adding that, this is the best time to show love and extend our generosity to our nearest neighbours.

Ajanaku who maintains social distancing while distributing the stimulus package, urged residents to keep regular hand washing and use of sanitizers as precautionary measures to combat the spread of corona virus disease.

Recall,  Agege Nigerian football star, Sylvester Emeka Igbonu, sly yesterday distributed the second batch of his economic stimulus package for over 200 most vulnerable citizens in his community, Agege.

In the same vein, The Chief Imam of Ogba Central Mosque, Alhaji Rafiu Salaudeen Metta yesterday also shared free fresh meat to his community people in Ogba Ashade Area of Agege.

According to the duo, the gesture was aimed at reaching out to the people that cannot have access to that of government packages and to also complement the effort of the state government in providing relief materials to cushion the effect of stay at home policy on below average citizens of our dear community.

Funke Akindele, husband charged to Court for violating restriction orders in Lagos

AgegePulse Magazine

Popular Nollywood Star, Funke Akindele Bello and her husband Abdul Rasheed Bello were today  arraigned in Chief Magistrate Court 1 Ogba on one count charge .

They were brought to Court by detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department Yaba led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of investigation, DCP Yetunde Longe. The prosecuting team was lead by the Hon Attorney General of Lagos State, Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN. The charge was read to the accused persons by the Court and they pleaded guilty.

 The Court found them guilty as charged and sentenced as follows:

 The defendants are to pay a fine of 100,000 each, sentenced to 14 days community service, three hours per day, excluding Saturday and Sunday; each Defender shall visit 10 important public places within Lagos State to educate the public on the consequences of non compliance with the restriction order; and they must submit the names and phone numbers of every person who attended the party. They shall be placed on isolation by the State Government to determine their COVID-19 status. Failure to abide by the above directives shall attract more severe punishments.

2. The brief facts of the case as contained in the charge are: On 04/04/2020, the two accused persons held a party at their residents with over twenty persons in attendance contrary to the social distancing directives made in pursuant to Regulation  8(1)(a) and (b) & 17(1)(i) of the Lagos State Infectious Disease (Emergency Prevention) Regulations 2020 and therefore committed an offence under Section 58 of the Public Health Law Cap P16 Vol. 9, Laws of Lagos State 2015.

3. The suspects were arrested by operatives of Lagos State Police Command following a viral video showing a large number of persons mainly in the entertainment industry in an Estate, along Ajah, Ibeju-Lekki axis, Lagos celebrating a birthday party organised by Funke Akindele Bello and her husband Abdul Rasheed Bello.

2. Azeez Fashola a.k.a Naira Marley is now in Police custody. He will also be charged to Court for violating the restriction orders.

The Command  has launched a manhunt for the remaining persons who attended the party. The Commissioner of Police Lagos State Command, CP Hakeem Odumosu psc expressed his profound gratitude to Lagosians and other well meaning Nigerians that speak up against the violations. Together we can stop the spread of COVID-19.

BREAKING: Funke Akindele pleads guilty

AgegePulse Magazine

Actress Funke Akindele has pleaded guilty for defying the orders of the Lagos state government which had ordered Lagosians to stay at home.

Akindele and her husband Abdulrasheed Bello popularly known as JJC skills were arraigned before a magistrate court, Samuel Ilori in Lagos.

Details later

The Nation

BREAKING: Ejigbo Local Government Chairman is dead

AgegePulse

The Chairman of Ejigbo local government in Osun State, Hon Gbenga Ayegbayo is dead.

Ayegbayo, who has been battling with an undisclosed illness for months, had his last breath in the early hours of Monday, April 6th.

It was gathered that he died at a private hospital in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

Ayegbayo was a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress and was elected Chairman of Ejigbo LG in 2018.

Lagos reporters

#StayAtHome Order: Lagos CP Arrests Ritualist, Paedophiles, Advises Parent On Proper Monitoring

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Police Command has arrested two paedophiles and a ritualist in the wake of the on going state stay – at – home order.

The paedophiles, Christain Chikezie and Dako Aron (52) were arrested in Ikorodu and Olanrewaju Street, Okokomaiko respectively. The duo were alleged to have had carnal knowledge of 9 year old and 13 year old girls respectively.

Chikezie, according to the statement released by the command PRO, DSP Bala  Elkana, was said to have had sexually abused his victim twice while Aron, an ‘habitual paedophile and a security guard in a private company in Okokomaiko was also alleged to have dragged his victim into his security post twice.

According to the statement, Dako was last charged to Court on 22, February, 2017 for raping a minor. The two suspects are to be charged to court while the two victims have been taken to the hospitals for medical treatment and forensic examination.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu has therefore advised parents to Monitor their Wards to avoid them from being preyed on by  paedophiles during this stay – at – home.

Meanwhile, a Ritualist, Dona Asogbo, 30, has been arrested by the command. He was arrested when some residents of Panuse area, Oko – Afo, Lekki reported at Morogbo Police Station that one Dona Asogbo  and Peter Alogbo have turned an uncompleted building in the community into a rituals’ den.

 Their activities were alleged to have instilled fear and panic in the community. The principal suspect, Dona Asogba was arrested while his partner took to his heels.

A mini size wooden coffin and all sorts of fetish items were recovered from the shrine. The shrine is suspected to be used for criminal purposes.

BREAKING: Police arrest Funke Akindele over house party

AgegePulse Magazine

Funke Akindele Bello has been arrested for hosting a house party to celebrate her husband JJC Skillz birthday in their home despite lockdown order in Lagos state.

According to reports, the Lagos State Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana, confirmed that Funke Akindele has been arrested and taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba.

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

This comes after Nigerians on social media called for the arrest Akindele, popularly called ‘Jenifa’ who is said to be an ambassador for the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control and Dettol.

Just In: Lagos records second death from Coronavirus; 1 evacuated

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, on Sunday said the state has recorded the death of a 36-year-old Nigerian man, who died of COVID-19 in the state.

Abayomi announced the death through his Twitter handle on Sunday.

He said it was the death of the second COVID-19 patient recorded in the state.

“We lost a #COVID19 patient; a 36-year-old Nigerian, male, who died in a private facility on April 4, 2020.

The total number of #COVID19 patients who have died is now two,” he said.

Abayomi, however, did not disclose further information about the medical history of the patient.

He added that one of the state’s COVID-19 patients had been evacuated, making it two COVID-19 patients evacuated from Nigeria back to their country.

The commissioner disclosed that one COVID-19 patient was discharged on April 4, bringing the number of COVID-19 patients who had fully recovered and discharged from the state’s facility to 24.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) had earlier confirmed 10 new cases of COVID-19 in Lagos, Abuja, and Edo.

Pmnews

BREAKING: LAGOS MAY EXTEND LOCKDOWN, says Sanwo-Olu

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said that lockdown order may be extended in the state beyond 14 days.

He said this during a media briefing on Saturday.

He said that the lockdown would be extended depending on the situation of things, adding that the number of patients discharged in Lagos has risen to 24.

It was reports that 109 of the 209 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Nigeria were recorded in Lagos.

The governor, however, assured residents that palliatives would be provided.

He said, “If there’s a need to extend the lockdown, I will. We got one discharged patient today (recovered from the coronavirus). We are going to sit down with the committee that is working on the community markets and see if we can announce more next week.”

On alleged assault of residents by enforcement agents, Sanwo-Olu said, “There’s been no backlash on the handling of people by the security operatives so far. I always tell them to ‘wear a human face’.”

Abuja and Lagos had been shut down for at least two weeks to curb the spread of COVID-19.

BREAKING: Six Coronavirus Patients Escape From Isolation Center

AgegePulse Magazine

The Osun State government has launched a manhunt for six persons with confirmed infection of COVID-19 who escaped from an isolation center in Ejigbo on Friday night.

The six persons belong to a cluster of COVID-19 cases who returned to their hometown, Ejigbo, from Ivory Coast last week and were quarantined by the state government.

A statement from the government which disclosed this gave the names of the six persons with their phone numbers.

Detail soon.

Native Reporters

COVID-19: Sylvester Ighonu Sly Donates Food Package To 200 Vulnerable Households In Agege

AgegePulse Magazine

Following the recent Government stay-at-home directives to residents, in order to curtail the spread of the pandemic coronavirus, Nigerian professional football player, Sylvester Emeka Igbonu, has donated food items (grain rice) as economic stimulus package for about 200 indigents and the most vulnerable citizens in his community, Agege.

The Agege born star, Sylvester Igboun who currently plays as a striker or an attacking midfielder for the Russian Premier League club FC Dynamo Moscow said that this stimulus package is very essential following the government 14days stay at home order.



Igbonu Nicknamed 'Sly' who's currently not in the country but has extended his feelings for humanity and care for his people through one of his representatives in Nigeria, Mr. Segun Adesina.

According to Segun Adesina, Sly, the CEO/Chairman of K&M Classic Event Centre in Lagos "is a very sensitive, listening and responsive individual having considered  what people of his community would have been facing during the lockdown in Lagos".

"This relief materials in terms of foodstuff (Rice) is part of our commitment to give back to our community at this trying times, and it is also aimed at reaching out to about over 200 vulnerable households as parts of activities to cushion the effect of stay at home directives in preventing the spread of coronavirus in our dear community.

"Coronavirus is real, and we urged our people to stay indoor and manage their resources as we are all in this fight together to combat the pandemic corona virus." Segun concluded.

COVID 19: RRS Storms Mosques In Agege, Ikeja, Ogba, warns Leaders On Religious Gatherings

AgegePulse Magazine

Commander, Rapid Response Squad (RRS) DCP Olatunji Disu today appealed to Muslim faithfuls gathering for Jumat ptherayers in two mosques in Agege Lagos to comply with the Lagos Order on religious gathering and social distancing as a way of preventing the spread of COVID 19.

The two mosques which are less than 100 meters from each other and located at Isale – Oja, Agege Motor Road, Agege had more than 25 faithfuls each in attendance praying and performing ablution

The monitoring was prompted by the State Commissioner of Police, Mr Hakeem Odumosu’s directive that Commander RRS go after defiant religious group that are not complying with government orders on COVID 19.

DCP Disu appealed to some of the faithfuls to comply with the State Government’s directive on religious gathering and social distancing, adding that the order was given in the larger interest of the society.

The leaders thanked DCP Tunji Disu and departed the scenes peacefully.

Meanwhile, the team again sent to their different homes about 160 children who had clustered in Morkaz Street, Agege waiting at the gate of a prominent leader in the street for a dole out.

According to one of the religious leaders in the street, who did not want his name mentioned, stated that the children were waiting for Alhaji for a dole out but unknown to them, he had travelled to Kano State.

He added that he was the one that chased the children away from the entrance gate of the man last week because he is aware that he had gone to Kano. He noted that Alhaji usually give them money and goodies on Fridays whenever he is around.

He reiterated the readiness of the residents of Morkas street to comply with the order of the State Government acknowledging that the sit - at - home order was in the interest of the people.

Other places visited by the team included: Ikeja, Oba Akran, Agege, Iyana Ipaja, Abule Egba, Ile – Epo, Orile Agege, Ekoro Road, Ijaiye, Ajasa Command, Iju – Fagba, Ifako – Ijaiye, Ogba – Aguda, Omole and Agidingbi.

Lagos Records First Covid19 Death As Infected Renal Patient Died in LUTH

He didn’t disclose his travel, medical history
COVID-19 only detected after blood sample tested positive postmortem –Source
Tessy Igomu

A 55-year-old man who was admitted to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, has died in the facility.

A reliable source at the tertiary hospital said the man died of (complications arising from) the global pandemic COVID-19 disease.

The source said the hospital discovered that the patient had COVID-19 after he tested positive to the virus when Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test was done on his blood posthumously.

“Fingerprint antibody test was done on him, confirming his COVID-19 infection,” our source said.

According to our source, the man, a 55-year-old hypertensive and diabetic patient, had presented to LUTH’s emergency unit on Thursday night with “malaise, tremors, and fever.”

He was also diagnosed with acute chronic kidney disease and sepsis, our source said.

The source, a caregiver, said the man did not disclose his travel history, and had died “a few hours” after his admission to the Federal Government-owned facility.

“The man did not give his travel history, or the fact that he had contact with someone who had travelled overseas.

“(When asked) He told the doctors that he had no history of coughs, sore throat, joint pains or diarrhoea,” our source added.

The caregiver said when the patient arrived at LUTH on Thursday night, he was sent to the “spillover unit” because the hospital had run out of bed spaces.

However, when he developed complications, a junior doctor (Reg) at the Accident & Emergency Unit reviewed his case and notified the Senior Registrar of his suspicion.

“After the Senior Registrar reviewed his case and confronted him with their findings, the man revealed the true story about his travels and his fear that he might have contracted COVID-19, and died shortly afterwards.

“He confessed that he had been coughing and that he had returned from Holland two weeks ago, where he had gone for follow-up treatment after a renal transplant he also had there.

“When confronted after the man’s death, his family members said they withheld the information about his likely COVID-19 infection because they were afraid that LUTH would reject him if they disclosed his true state,” our source added.

The man died early Friday morning, and the Lagos State coronavirus emergency workers took away his body.

When PUNCH HealthWise put a call across to the Lagos State Emergency Helpline for COVID-19, a staff at the centre said a similar call had also been placed by someone earlier regarding the incident.

“I got a call in respect of this from somebody in LUTH and we are yet to confirm that.

“We are only at the call centre to receive calls and don’t know what is going on out there,” the officer, who identified himself as Tolani, said.

Asked if it was a LUTH staff that called the helpline, Tolani said he didn’t know the persons’ identity. “I just got a random call,” he said.

He, however, told our correspondent to call back at an unstated time.

Meanwhile, a text message to confirm the development was sent separately to the Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Prof. Chris Bode; and the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi.

The message read, “Good evening sir. Trust your day was good. My name is Tessy Igomu, a journalist with The PUNCH Newspapers. I learnt that a COVID-19 patient with travel history to Holland just died in LUTH. Can you kindly confirm?”

Replying to the text message, Prof. Bode Chris said, “Confirm that with the Hon Commissioner of Health, Lagos State.

“He is the only one who gives out details and figures during an epidemic.”

The Health Commissioner has yet to respond to the text message as of the time of filing this report.

When our correspondent called the Health Commissioner, Prof. Akin Abayomi; and the Director, Public Affairs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Mr. Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, their individual phones rang out without being answered.

peraNews

Lagos discharges four more COVID-19 patients

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government on Friday said four more Coronavirus patients have been discharged after they tested negative twice.

Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi disclosed this at a news conference to give update on Coronavirus situation in Lagos at the Island Maternity Hospital on Lagos Island, Lagos.

He said of the four patients released, there were three female and one male, saying that one of the females was an eight-week-old baby.

Abayomi said the baby was hail and hearty with her mother.

This brings to 24, the total number of Coronavirus patients so far discharged in Lagos State.

The state government had on Thursday discharged 11 Coronavirus patients, after having discharged nine people earlier.

Abayomi said Lagos currently has 98 Coronavirus cases, out of which 24 patients had been discharged.

He added that the state now had 74 active cases after discharging 24 patients.

According to him, government was trying to flatten the transmission rate by asking Lagosians to embrace social distancing.

He said the state was currently tracing 2,450 contacts of infected patients.

The commissioner added that the Coronavirus cases being handled in the state were mild except for two patients who had moderate to severe issues, but noted that their cases had not reached a point where they need ventilators

The Nation

#Covid19: Lagos Council Leader, Fayemi Distributes Free Economic Stimulus package

AgegePulse Magazine

In a bid to reduce the impact of the envisaged shortage of food items during the COVID-19 rampage which resulted to the total lockdown of some States in the Country including Lagos State,
the Legislative Leader of the 4th,Orile Agege Legislative Arm, and Councilor representing Ward E, Hon.'Wale Fayemi has distributed thousands of loaves of breads to Orile Agege residents to support the compulsory stay at home order.

According to Hon. Fayemi "It's to give adequate support to the State Government just as Orile Agege Local Council Administration under the leadership of Hon. Johnson Sunday Babatunde and the Lagos State Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon.
Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa  that joined hands
 in the battle against the deadly virus as well as give their widow's mite in the form of foodstuff, hand sanitizers, and continuous Fumigation  of Markets,Schools and open spaces of Orile Agege and Agege respectively".

However, Hon. Fayemi has promised continuous  distribution of loaves of breads till the end of the lockdown.

The Council Leader also appealed to residents to adhere strictly to the stay at home rules in other to prevent the spread of Coronavirus that has become a global pandemic disease.

Lagos Council seals mosque for violating order on Religious gathering

AgegePulse Magazine

Agege Local Government area of Lagos State has sealed a mosque in area for violating the state government’s order on religious gathering in the fight against the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu had banned gathering of more than 20 persons in one of the raft of preventive measures announced by the government to curtail the deadly disease spread.

The government equally outlawed congregational worshipping.

However, worshippers at Agege Central Mosque better known as Mosalasi Alhaja, located at Balogun Street, however, flouted the order on Tuesday during the Evening Prayer (Isha) and worshipped in hundreds.

Attempts by officials of the Lagos State COVID-19 Taskforce, who arrived at the scene to enforce compliance following a tip-off was said to have been viciously rebuffed.

“A drama ensued when some of the Muslim youths sighted the team and became aggressive, unruly and started to attack the team. Others in the mosque, numbering about 300 rushed out chanting ALLAHU AKBAR and joined them in the attack by throwing stones at the vehicles. All entreaties to talk to the Imam failed as the youth were persistent. But the Police escort rose to the occasion by curbing further attacks and ensuring the safety of the team”,  a statement by the General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and leader of the Taskforce, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe had said.

The Council on Thursday sealed up the mosque after a fumigation exercise led by the Executive Chairman, Alh. Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi, was conducted at the venue.    

Speaking at the scene, Egunjobi said the shutdown became necessary to avert recurrence and serve as deterrent to other erring faith groups or worshippers.

“We cannot continue to condone act capable of spreading this dreadful disease. Even Saudi Arabia placed restrictions on the number of people who must worship in the two holy mosques, Haram and Nabawi and banned congregational prayers in all other mosques across the country. Honestly speaking, we cannot be more Roman than the Romans.  
 
“We have had engagement with the leadership of the mosque including the Sarkin Hausawa, HRH Musa Muhammed, and our resolution is that it should be shut down till further notice” the council chief said.

Recall, Egunjobi has recently embarked on the street to street sensitization program in some Hausas communities in Morkas Area of Agege Community.

COVID -19: Worshippers Attack Taskforce in Agege As LASG Condemns Act

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State COVID-19 Taskforce, mandated by the State Government to monitor and enforce compliance against public gatherings exceeding 25 people, was on Tuesday attacked by some Muslim worshippers at the Hausa Community Agege Central Mosque, Moshalashi Alhaja, Agege.

Speaking on the incident, the General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and leader of the Taskforce, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe condemned the attack and described it as barbaric and uncalled for, saying “our people are out to protect the residents of the State and yet were attacked for doing their jobs”.

She stated that the State Government will not hesitate to sanction violators to serve as a deterrent to others, adding that it was obvious the gathering did not comply with the directive of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on public gathering and social distancing.

According to her, Taskforce team COVID-19, comprising of Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Lagos Safety Commission and the Rapid Response Squad, saw the Muslim faithful observing their evening prayer (Solatul Eshai) in a large congregation, contrary to the directive on total lockdown to stem the tide of the COVID-19 pandemic in the State.

“However, a drama ensued when some of the Muslim youths sighted the team and became aggressive, unruly and started to attack the team. Others in the mosque, numbering about 300 rushed out chanting ALLAHU AKBAR and joined them in the attack by throwing stones at the vehicles. All entreaties to talk to the Imam failed as the youth were persistent. But the Police escort rose to the occasion by curbing further attacks and ensuring the safety of the team”, she disclosed.

Fasawe revealed that the Agency has been enjoying support and compliance from religious houses and was surprised that the congregation of a mosque that was visited last week could default and also attack government officials trying to enforce compliance.

In her words, “The team has visited several places of worship and have been able to enlighten them and advocate the social distancing approach in all gatherings. But in this instance, the mosque was filled to capacity. The essence of social distancing is to curtail the spread of Coronavirus. The people are endangering their lives and those of their neighbours”.

While noting that the State Government remains committed to protecting all residents, Dr. Fasawe promised to escalate the matter to appropriate quarters because such gathering should not be allowed to continue in the interest of all.

In his own remark, the Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission and Co-Leader of the Taskforce, Mr. Lanre Mojola observed that the leadership of the two prominent religious organisations in the State had been adequately sensitised and carried along in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

“But we won’t relent, we will continue to appeal to our people to heed advice. Prayers can be observed at home, businesses can be resuscitated but this deadly virus is dangerous if not well managed and timely controlled.  If not for us, but for our families, friends and neighbours, let us do the needful and observe safety measures at all times,” he added.

Majola, therefore, implored all Lagosians to comply fully with the directive as the present administration will not hesitate to apply the law when necessary.

Recall that the Lagos State Special Taskforce on COVID-19 was recently inaugurated by the State Government to enforce the executive orders toward curtailing the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic.

COVID-19 LOCKDOWN: Lagos Seals SPN Packaging, Supreme Brothel In Ikeja, Agege for Non-Compliance

AgegePulse  Magazine

The Lagos State COVID-19 Taskforce, mandated by the State Government to monitor and enforce compliance with the Statewide restriction order, has sealed SPN Packaging, situated at Plot B, Israel Adebajo Close, Ikeja and Supreme Brothel, at 8, Omitola Panada, Street, Agege, among others, for violating the two-week stay-at-home directive.

The Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, who spoke on the exercise, stated that the enforcement was carried out following a tip-off received from good-spirited individuals that some firms directed their workers to resume duties, despite the stay-at-home order announced by the Federal and State governments.

He described the non-compliance of some organisations as unpatriotic, noting that the essence of the directive was to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Lagos.

In his words, “In following one of the tip-offs to the factory of PSN, a Chinese packaging firm, the team discovered that some Chinese nationals and their Nigerian workers were inside the factory while production was ongoing, contrary to an earlier claim that the premises was empty. They were immediately directed to stop production before the company was eventually sealed”.

Majola decried a situation where some business owners forced their employees to come to work in clear defiance of a presidential directive, adding that the State Government enforcement team will not be deterred by the antics of some selfish people who are determined to endanger the lives of others through their unbridled greed.

He also disclosed that Jumia, an online marketing warehouse situated at 1B, Surulere Industrial Road, Off Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja, was initially sealed by the Taskforce but was, however, reopened on Wednesday, after it was established that its activity/line of production is classified as essential goods/suppliers as enshrined in the infectious Disease Regulation signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on March 27, 2020.  

While revealing that the enforcement team also dislodged a group of over 50 commercial sex workers at Supreme Brothel before sealing off the premises, Mojola warned residents of the area to abstain from patronising such crowded locations to prevent the spread of diseases, especially the lethal Coronavirus.

On her part, the General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe revealed that her agency has been receiving lots of tip-offs from concerned citizens about the activities of some unscrupulous organisations contravening the lockdown directive in the State.

She declared that there is no hiding place for violators of government directives because the enforcement team is working round the clock to ensure total compliance, urging every Lagosian to abide by the stay-at-home directive in support of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.

COVID-19: FG Commences N20,000 Conditional Cash Transfer To Poor Households

 AgegePulse Magazine

The Federal Government has commenced the disbursement of N20,000 Conditional Cash Transfer to indigent households (poor) at the Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

This is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to help reduce the effect of President Muhammadu’s lockdown order following the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadia Umar-Farouk, said on Wednesday while kickstarting the disbursement that due to the scourge of COVID-19, the Federal Government is giving out N20,000 per person for the next four months starting from March 2020.

She explained that the President during his broadcast last week directed that the Conditional Cash Transfer should be given in advance of two months.

“We have directed immediate cash transfer to the poorest and most vulnerable households in the country,” she said.

“Because of this COVID-19, the vulnerable groups have to expand, because we are aware that there are people who live on daily wage, so we are also going to look at those groups of people to see how we can get this food relief intervention to them in this period.”

ChannelsTv

COVID-19: Ikeja Electric suspends disconnection of electricity during lockdown

AgegePulse Magazine

Nigeria’s electricity distribution company, Ikeja Electric Plc, has announced that non-paying customers within its franchise network will not be disconnected during the two-week stay-at-home period enforced by the government to curb the spread of COVID-19.

According to the Disco, the decision to suspend all disconnection activities was taken to allow all its customers enjoy electricity supply during the lockdown period, while giving consideration to those who cannot afford to pay their March 2020 bills due to the closure.

While making the announcement in a statement on Wednesday, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the company, Folake Soetan, said, “At Ikeja Electric, we recognise the fact that electricity supply is critical to our ability to stay safe, clean and indoors.

“Therefore, we have also taken a decision to suspend all disconnection activities of non-paying customers for a period of two weeks starting today.

"This is to ensure that customers who cannot afford to pay their March bills due to the closure continue to enjoy supply until the stay at home order is lifted. Customers who also wish to pay their bills can also do so using any of our designated online payment platforms. Our prepaid customers can buy energy online using any of your preferred online banking or merchant platforms. You can also visit our website to purchase vending units."

Speaking further, she noted that Ikeja Electric has put measures in place to ensure that engineers and technicians are available to clear all forced and unforced outages, while also continuing with the preventive maintenance programmes.

Punch

BREAKING: FG reduces petrol pump price to N123.50 litre

AgegePulse Magazine

The Federal Government has announced a reduction of the pump price of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to N123.50 per litre.

According to the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), Executive Secretary, Mr. Abdulkadir Saidu, the new price takes effect from today, April 1, 2020.


In a statement in Abuja on Tuesday night, he said: “PPPRA, in line with the Government approval for a monthly review of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) pump price, hereby announces Guiding PMS pump price of N123.50 per Litre.

“The Guiding price which becomes effective 1st April 2020, shall apply at all retail outlets nationwide for the month of April, 2020.

“PPPRA and other relevant regulatory Agencies shall continue to monitor compliance to extant regulations for a sustainable downstream petroleum sector. Members of the Public and all Oil Marketing Companies are to be guided accordingly.”

The Nation

JUST IN: Nigeria suspends plan to increase electricity tariff

AgegePulse Magazine

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) will not proceed with the increment of the electricity tariff scheduled to take effect from April 1.

The latest announcement on Tuesday by the regulatory agency on its Twitter handle says, “There shall be no increase in tariff of end-use customers on April 1, 2020.”

The NERC spokesperson, Usman Arabi, confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES that the agency authored the post on its Twitter handle.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) condemned the plan to increase the electricity tariff.

The NLC President, Ayuba Wabba, in a statement, said that such an action would only add more pains to Nigerians amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact.

NERC had in December 2019 disclosed that it would increase tariff from April 1, 2020.
A large part of Nigeria is on lockdown as the country joins the rest of the word to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.

Schools have been shut nationwide while many state governments have restricted movements in their states.
Nigeria has recorded 135 cases of the virus at the time of this report.

PremiumTimes

Lagos lockdown: We don’t know how to survive without working for two weeks – Residents

AgegePulse Magazine
     



Policemen mount a road block with a stick to prevent the movement of motorists in compliance with lockdown by the authorities to curb the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Lagos on March 31, 2020.

‌
Africa’s largest city Lagos was deserted Tuesday after Nigeria locked down its economic hub and shuttered its capital, in the continent’s latest effort to brake the juggernaut of coronavirus.

Businesses were closed, markets abandoned and streets empty as the usually chaotic megacity of 20 million, along with the capital Abuja, shuddered to a halt on the first full day of a two-week shutdown.


Police in protective equipment manned checkpoints, trucks carrying non-essential items were turned back and youths were spotted playing football on a usually traffic-clogged highway.

“It is like putting people in prison,” said minibus taxi driver Mutiu Adisa.

“I don’t know how people can survive for two weeks without working to make money.”

Nigeria embarked late Monday on one of Africa’s most ambitious efforts at social distancing after recording 135 confirmed cases and two deaths.



5'

NEWS
Lagos lockdown: We don’t know how to survive without working for two weeks – Residents
Published March 31, 2020
     



Policemen mount a road block with a stick to prevent the movement of motorists in compliance with lockdown by the authorities to curb the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Lagos on March 31, 2020. (Photo by PIUS UTOMI EKPEI / AFP)
‌
Africa’s largest city Lagos was deserted Tuesday after Nigeria locked down its economic hub and shuttered its capital, in the continent’s latest effort to brake the juggernaut of coronavirus.

Businesses were closed, markets abandoned and streets empty as the usually chaotic megacity of 20 million, along with the capital Abuja, shuddered to a halt on the first full day of a two-week shutdown.


Police in protective equipment manned checkpoints, trucks carrying non-essential items were turned back and youths were spotted playing football on a usually traffic-clogged highway.

“It is like putting people in prison,” said minibus taxi driver Mutiu Adisa.

“I don’t know how people can survive for two weeks without working to make money.”

Nigeria embarked late Monday on one of Africa’s most ambitious efforts at social distancing after recording 135 confirmed cases and two deaths.


READ ALSO: COVID-19 survivor urges Nigerians to stop stigmatisation

Enforcing the stay-at-home order in the overcrowded slums of Lagos will be a mammoth challenge as millions of poor depend on their daily earnings to survive.

Officials insist the draconian measures are needed urgently to ward off an explosion in infections that could easily overwhelm the weak health system in Africa’s most populous nation.

“To reduce the number of people with coronavirus, we know they need to stop movement,” 60-year-old engineer Ogun Nubi Victor said.

Punch

Coronavirus Not A Death Sentence - HOR Member, Dr. Samuel Adejare

...Urges Residents To 'Stay At Home' As He Rolls Out Relief Materials

...Commends Gov. Sanwo-Olu For His Proactiveness

AgegePulse Magazine

Federal House of Representatives Member, representing Agege Federal Constituency, Dr. Samuel Babatunde Adejare has revealed that being tested positive for the ongoing pandemic disease corona virus is not a death sentence.



Dr. Samuel Adejare who is a professional doctor and politician allayed fear of his constituency saying the is a global challenge, reiterating that though corona virus is real but not a death sentence.

Dr. Adejare revealed this while briefing AgegePulse Magazine in his Constituency Office in Agege.



He urged people of his constituents to comply with the directives of health officers. "It is important to embark on regular hand washing, use of sanitizer, avoid touching your eyes, nose mouth and keeping social distancing as best practice to avoid the spread of the pandemic.



Recall, President Muhammadu Buhari has just made some pronouncements on the nation’s battle-plan against Coronavirus while addressing the nation in a national broadcast. Buhari announced that as from 11pm on Monday 30th of March 2020, movement will be restricted in Lagos State for 14 days. Only people rendering essential services, such as health workers, manufacturers and distributors of health equipment and drugs, food and water companies are expected to go out.

Adejare continued: "This is the time to be more focused on our responsibility in this battle. Let us continue to obey the simple rules prescribed by the experts. These include social distancing, even as we remain indoors, washing of our hands with soap and water as many times as possible, covering our mouths when we sneeze or cough and avoiding any gathering for whatever reason".



Adejare urged the good people of Agege and Orile Agege to abide by the directives of States and Federal Governments as part of precautionary measures to avoid spread of the virus. "Our relief materials in terms of hand sanitizer, and food items to vulnerable homes will be out soon to cushion the effect of 'Stay at Home' measure and also compliment the effort of the Lagos State Government.



"I must commend the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu for his proactiveness and leadership in containing this deadly disease. Also, worthy of recognition is our council chairmen in Agege and Orile Agege, Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi and Hon. JS Babatunde for their activeness in sensitisation campaigns, fumigation and disinfection of major areas in our dear community.



"As Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Health, when the green chamber reconvene, with the help of Honourable colleagues, we will sponsor a bill that will "alleviate pain from our people" in regards to health infrastructure with at least 15% of National budget to health sector". Dr. Adejare Asserted

Lockdown: Sanwo-Olu Charges Security Operatives On High Level of Professionalism

…Enforcement Will Be Done With Human Face - CP

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged security agents to be friendly in enforcing the lockdown order announced on Sunday by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Governor urged those who will be carrying out the enforcement to show high professionalism in dealing with erring persons, cautioning that high-handedness may lead to violation of human rights of residents.

Sanwo-Olu gave the charge on Monday in a discussion with commanders of all security formations in the State during a Security Council meeting held at the State House in Marina.

President Buhari announced 14-day cessation of movement in Lagos, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Ogun State as part of the steps to break the cycle of the spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country. Lagos is the worst hit among the three states locked down by the Federal Government.

Briefing the press after the meeting, Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, who spoke on behalf of the Council, said the presidential directive would be fully implemented, stressing that commanders of each security agency had resolved to comply with the Governor’s entreaty.

He said the enforcement of the restriction order would be executed with human face, but pleaded with residents and inter-state commuters to exercise self-compliance with the presidential directive.

He said: “We have just concluded a Security Council meeting with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and as commanders of security agencies in Lagos, we have fully digested the presidential directive on COVID-19. We have all resolved now to comply and enforce all the restrictions.

“The enforcement of the restrictions and all directives will be done with human face. We want to appeal to members of the public; what matters most is self compliant. They must try as much as possible to comply voluntarily to the laid down regulations, so that we can collectively defeat the pandemic.”

The Lagos police boss said those who had been exempted in the presidential directive would be allowed to move unhindered at any time of the day in the containment period, but added that the exemption was not blanket.

Odumosu said some other professionals and government officials on essential duties would be allowed to move, but said their leadership must obtain clearance from security agencies before sending out staff to work.

He said: “The exemption is not blanket. Some other measurements will still be attached to it and sent to various government ministries in the state. The Commissioners in charge of these ministries will have review and confirm those who are exempted are actually qualified to be exempted.”

Historic As Sanwo-Olu Holds EXCO Meeting Online

Lagos EXCO Makes History with First-Ever Virtual Meeting

Banters here and there, waving of hands and laughter.

“Can you see me?” Am I connected?” “Yeah, I’m here”.

AgegePulse Magazine

Suddenly, at about 11.05am, the Chairman enters and announces his presence by calling the house to order. All is quiet.

It was an exciting moment this morning at the Lagos State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting – the first-ever virtual meeting in the history of governance in the State. Nigeria? Well, not clear.

The Chairman is no other person than Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. The Deputy Chair is Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso said the meeting was held via Zoom, a free HD meeting application with video and screen sharing for up to 100 people.

It was all in compliance with the directive against gatherings as part of the anti-Coronavirus battle-plan.

“The meeting was slated for 10.45am but almost all EXCO members had hooked up to the system by 10.00am, awaiting the arrival of Mr. Governor to kickstart deliberations for the day,” Omotoso said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu came online at about 11.05am. On top of the agenda was the review of the management of COVID-19, especially the provision of additional isolation centres; the fumigation of the State against the spread of the virus, and the package for the less-privileged and daily income earners, the indigent.

“The Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Gbolahan Lawal briefed members on the distribution of the relief packages to local governments and local council development areas. Members reviewed areas where teething problems occurred and proffered ideas to solve identified problems,” he added.

There were comments by some members. As the debates and clarifications went on, the Chairman announced that those eager to speak should spend a minute each.

While acknowledging the excitement of members for being part of the first virtual meeting of the Lagos State Executive Council, the Commissioner said the feat affirmed that governance in Lagos will proceed seamlessly despite the 14-day restriction announced by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Lagos and Ogun States as well as the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja are on a 14-day lockdown.

“Members were in high spirits. Some of us were in our offices; others attended the online meeting from the comfort of their homes. With this historic achievement, residents are assured that governance in Lagos State will continue, irrespective of the situation around us,” Omotoso asserted.

The idea of the online meeting was mooted by Governor Sanwo-Olu, who directed the Ministry of Science and Technology to facilitate it. The Special Adviser (Innovation and Technology), Mr. Olatunbosun Alake, moderated the meeting, reading out the dos and don’ts of the session which Science and Technology Commissioner, Hakeem Fahm described as “historic”.

“We should let our people know about this,” Waterfront Infrastructure Development Commissioner, Kabiru Ahmed said excitedly after the meeting.

COVID-19: Sanwo-Olu Receives N1Billion Donation from UBA

...Gov Commends The Bank's Initiative

...Says Fund Will Assist Govt To Fight Spread Of Virus

Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has received a cheque for the sum of 1billion naira from the United Bank for Africa as part of the bank's commitment to help curb the devastating effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the State.

Presenting the cheque to Mr. Governor at the State House, Marina on Sunday evening, the Managing Director of the bank, Mr. Kenneth Uzoka, said the one billion naira donation is also in fulfilment of the five billion naira commitment made by the UBA Group Chairman, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, early last week.

Uzoka said that as a socially responsible institution, UBA cares for its communities and  for Lagos State, which has recorded the highest number of positive cases thus far, needing special attention.

He disclosed that the decision to give Lagos one billion naira was as a result of the important role that the state plays in the economy of not only Nigeria, but Africa as a whole, given its vast population and other key economic factors.

He said: “Given the population of this state and that it is the business nerve centre, we at UBA are committed to lending our support to the state government. So today, we are giving you and the state one billion naira to support your endeavour in fighting the Coronavirus disease.

“I will not fail to mention that this wasn’t an easy decision for us because Lagos is just one of the many states in Nigeria. However, we looked at the importance of Lagos to Nigeria, but more importantly, we looked at the fact that Lagos has set up the right structure to administer whatever it is that we are giving to the state. So, we are rest assured, because we believe without an iota of doubt that the state will use these funds effectively and efficiently,”

The Governor expressed appreciation to the financial institution for the support, saying that the money will go a long way to assist the state in kicking out the pandemic.

He said: “We appreciate UBA. This is not the kind of money that we would want to take for granted. This is really an important intervention and this fund will go a long way to meet all of our needs both now and in the future, to ensure that Lagos continues to remain safe for business.

“And so, we are indeed happy that you decided to make this very bold move to support the health facility infrastructure in Lagos. You can be rest assured that once the structures have been developed, we will call you again to see what we have put these resources to.

Last week, the bank announced a donation of over 5 billion Naira (USD14 million), through the UBA Foundation, to catalyse a comprehensive pan-African response to the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic.

LAWMA DISTRIBUTES PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT TO SWEEPERS, PSP OPERATORS

AgegePulse magazine 

Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), today, 29th March, 2020, distributed personal protective equipment (PPE) kits, to its sweepers and PSP operators across the state to protect them from infection in the course of their duties.

Items distributed included hand sanitizers, liquid soap, safety goggle, rubber work gloves, and re-useable nose masks, among others.

Speaking at the presentation of the materials at LAWMA Headquarters, Ijora, the Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, noted that the move was in compliance with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive that all necessary steps be taken to arrest the further spread of corona virus.

He said that the over four thousand PSP employees and fifteen thousand street sweepers must be adequately protected because of the hazardous nature of their public sanitation service which may expose them to infection by the corona virus. 

According to him, “We are kitting our sweepers and PSP operators as we have always done, in line with the directive of the incident commander, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who has repeatedly stressed, that all precautionary measures must be taken, to curb the spread of corona virus”

“We have more over fifteen thousand sweepers and four thousand waste handlers working with private PSP operators, and they all must be adequately and properly protected from infection. Our move is also in line with the instructions of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) that all preventive measures must be taken”, he added.

Speaking further, he said: “These PPE kits will protect their mouth, nose and eyes from possible infection from the waste they handle”.

Dr. Gbadegesin said the sweepers and PSP operators must keep working throughout the stay-at-home period since they are essential workers and the city must be kept clean during the pandemic. He added that additional measures that will be taken including sanitization and disinfection of LAWMA operational depots, dumpsites, transfer loading stations and waste bin locations across the state. 

In his remarks, the president, Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria and chairman of Lagos State chapter, Mr. David Oriyomi, thanked LAWMA and the state government for the protective items, promising that they would be put to good use, while also urging other states to emulate the Lagos example.

LASG Engages CDAs, NGOs to Distribute Stimulus Package

The Lagos State Government, on Sunday, disclosed that it has engaged no fewer than 4,000 registered Community Development Associations (CDAs), Non-Governmental Organisations and Religious Leaders to distribute the economic stimulus package unveiled for the indigent and the most vulnerable in the society.

The stimulus, which comes in food packs, to be distributed to every local government in the State is aimed at cushioning the effects of the fourteen-day stay-at-home directive of the State Government.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Prince Gbolahan Lawal, who revealed this in Lagos today, explained that since the exercise began on Friday, six local government areas including Eti-Osa, Oshodi-Isolo, Epe, Badagry, Agege and Ibeju-Lekki have received their stimulus packages, adding that the remaining local government areas would be covered within the next 10 days.

Lawal averred that the stimulus package of the State Government is quite unique and different from many that are being posted on the social media, pointing out that the items distributed by the State Government are sealed and branded.

“If you receive any produce from any other source that is not branded, they are not from us. Our rice is the 5kg rice, sealed. Our garri is 5kg, sealed; beans, 3kg, sealed. Other finished products are also coming like the sachet pepper, tomatoes and onions. That is what the State Government is giving out”, Lawal said.

He urged residents to exercise patience as the stimulus package would get to the targeted people, just as he urged them to maintain social distancing and good personal hygiene to reduce the spread of Coronavirus.

“Again, it is important for us to let Lagosians know that social distancing is something we are advocating; people should just relax, the food will get to them because we understand what the economic situation is. I am sure you are aware that 200,000 households in the first instance have been earmarked and we are working with the community development associations, religious leaders and organisations, councillors and non-governmental organisations, in collaboration with the State govErnie.