Ayade yields, rejigs plans on face mask
2 min readChiemeka ADINDU
Apparently yielding to the plea of the citizens, Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River state has rescheduled the take off date for the no mask no movement order to Monday, April 6, 2020.
In a release signed by His Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Christian Ita the postponement is necessitated by the need to allow the Garment Factory produce enough masks for further free deliveries to the people and residents of Cross River state.
Some of the residents who narrated their ordeal to newsmen at the garment factory in Calabar bemoaned their inability to get the nose mask as there was a minimum number due to its high demand in the state.
https://tnnonline.info/2020/04/03/covid-19-rivers-community-markets-remain-shut-youth-leader-excited/
They had further recounted the high cost its purchase from supermarkets, thereby calling on the governor to come to their aid by postponing the date of its enforcement to allow a greater percentage of the residents have access to the mask.
The state government had on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 announced that there will be restriction of movement in the state to only those on mask to avoid the outbreak and spread of COVID-19in the state. The restriction begins tomorrow, April 3, 2020.
Meanwhile, Medical professionals have encouraged the public to be cautious while wearing the nose mask as indiscriminate approach toward wearing it could increase the spread of the virus.
https://tnnonline.info/2020/04/02/no-more-curfew-in-port-harcourt/
In an interview with a Medical Doctor at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, UCTH, Dr. Akabom Boco, research is still ongoing on the proper guidelines for the usage of the nose mask in the prevention of diseases.
In his words, “there is another research from the World Health Organization, WHO which states that the virus can last for 7 days on the mask. The mask is supposed to be single use.” He cautioned that touching ones’ face while trying to wear the mask could also increase the chances of contracting viruses.
He stressed on the need for proper education of the masses on the principles guiding wearing of nose mask and the possible dangers when misused. He however maintained that the WHO will come up with their result soon for proper education.
The governor’s chief press secretary, Mr Christian Ita who announced the extension of time for the citizens to wear masks before moving in any part of the state noted that the new development is to ensure that more people had the masks before enforcement commences.
“However, the order banning movements into the state remains in force as all entry points remain shut. While those wishing to leave Cross River can do so, no one is allowed into the state at this time.
Government appeals to all Cross Riverians to strictly comply and adhere to all the laid down preventive measures”, the statement unveiled.