By Martin Odiete, Abuja
The Plateau State government has stated that any person caught in the state spreading false information regarding the existence of the Covid-19 disease will be considered a criminal in the state.
The Governor, RT. HON. (DR) SIMON BAKO LALONG, STATED THIS AT AN ENGAGEMENT MEETING WITH PLATEAU STAKEHOLDERS ON SECOND WAVE OF COVID-19 AND SECURITY ISSUES IN THE STATE.
He stated, “The most worrisome point here is that despite this situation, most citizens appear to be careless and reluctant to observe the COVID-19 protocols. In fact, many have abandoned and refused to observe simple protocols of wearing face masks, maintaining social distance and washing hands regularly.
“This worries me a lot because this recklessness is further exposing more people to the virus and then increasing the casualty figures. While we have no intention of imposing another lockdown to avoid further damage to the economy, some members of the public are not helping us.
“But I hope everyone knows that as a government, we cannot fold our arms to witness people dying over a situation that is largely preventable. I hope we shall see a change of attitude going forward as we resume more vigorous level of enforcement of all the protocols.
“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.
“That is why at the last State EXCO meeting, we decided to criminalize further denial of the disease in the State. 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,” he said.
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