Plateau government warns citizens against misinformation on Covid 19

By Oluchi Ihediuche

Governor of Plateau State Simon Lalong has warned individuals spreading misinformation about Covid 19 to desist from the act or face the threat of the law.

In a meeting held in the state secretariat on Wednesday the governor noted that misinformation of the virus has made people to life in denial about the existence of the virus.

“For those who are in denial and continue to misinform others that COVID-19 does not exist, I want to warn them to desist. I, as the number one citizen of the state, was a victim and God helped me to come out of it. I can tell you that it is not a joke and I do not wish even my enemies such experience,”

“In other words, if you deny the existence of the disease, keep your denial to yourself because if you are caught propagating it or instigating others to follow you, you will be arrested and prosecuted no matter how highly placed you might be.”

Mr Lalong said the state is recording more daily cases than previously.

“Sadly, we are also recording increasing number of deaths that is very worrisome. In the past weeks, we have seen some prominent persons in Plateau State and indeed across Nigeria die from COVID-19.

“Mostly, we hear of the big names but do not get to hear of the others involving people that (who) are less prominent. This should give us serious concern because it means that the situation is bigger than what we seem to know.”

The governor expressed concerns that citizens are not adhering to the safety protocols for the prevention of the virus.

“most citizens appear to be careless and reluctant to observe the COVID-19 protocols.”