The Abia State Government said it has uncovered what it described as the “unwholesome” activities of patent medicine dealers who now treat COVID-19 carriers in their facilities.
The state government in a release signed by Chris Ezem, the Secretary to Abia State Government (SSG), and also the Chairman, Inter-Ministerial Committee on COVID-19, Abia State ban any form of cultural and traditional festivals across the 17 local government areas of the state till further notice.
According to Ezem, the state government in a renewed vigour to avert further community spreading of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic in the state has directed the commencement of community testing in all the LGAs in the State.
Information has it that the governor will be flagging off a COVID-19 Sensitisation Committee across the 17 LGAs in the State; with a major flag-off at Aba South LGA Town Hall.
The state government used the opportunity to call on Aba South, Abians among other residents to present themselves for the all-important exercise holding on the 19th of August.
“Government has noticed an unwholesome trend where most Patent Medicine Dealers are now treating suspected COVID-19 patients in the State.
“The trend is not only worrisome as the government is concerned more about the safety and exposure of our Patent Medicine Store Dealers/Pharmacists.
“Consequently, the government will be holding interactive sessions with this group on COVID-19 and their expected roles on 20th August, 2020 at Michael Okpara Auditorium.”
