The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has reiterated that Coronavirus (COVID-19) is not a disease for the elites as is being labelled by a section of Nigerians.
The minister said this on Thursday in Abuja.
He noted that, in spite of government’s efforts through the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, some people still live in denial that the disease is real and deadly.
“They still believe that it is an elitist disease.
“As a matter of fact, a colleague of mine once said that he went home with a mask and was ostracised because people say only those who have COVID-19 are wearing masks.
“We need to appeal to Nigerians that this thing is not a joke and it is not just capable of killing, but can overwhelm our health sector.”
Mohammed, a member of the PTF, said that a few charlatans were exploiting the situation by saying that they have cure for the disease.
According to him, there is no known cure or vaccine for COVID-19, stressing that the disease is being managed with non-medical strategies including, personal hygiene, social and personal distancing as well as wearing of face mask.
The minister thanked the media for their selfless efforts and sacrifice in sensitising Nigerians to the dangers of contracting the virus.
He appealed to opinion leaders, traditional rulers, the clerics and other stakeholders to take ownership of the campaign to let Nigerians know the dangers of COVID-19.
“What are we asking for? Wear your mask, avoid mass gathering, keep personal hygiene and do not congregate.
