Triangle Magazine Editorial
The news of the death of Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Wahab Adegbenro which according to report happened due to complications from coronavirus is indeed a call for serious action in the Sunshine State. Without sounding alarming, a war General in the battle against Covid-19 has been brought down by this deadly virus, there is therefore every reason for the foot soldiers to be deeply concerned.
The time for glaring denial is over and the most patriotic step for the government of Ondo State is to term with the ugly realities on its hand. The realities of vulnerability and community spread of coronavirus in Ondo State must be termed with and urgent actions should be taken to stem the spread.
The Arakunri Rotimi Akeredolu’s led government need to consult the immediate past Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and the immediate past Health Commissioner, Dr Dayo Adeyanju on way forward on the coronavirus pandemic. Aside from the above stated individuals, Ondo State government must also reach out to other medical experts that can be of invaluable help in the fight against the covid-19 pandemic.
What appeared like a careless exposure of selves by members of Ondo State House of Assembly in a video seen few weeks ago was a pointer to an imminent outbreak of covid-19 amongst members of the state executive and legislative arm. Time of denial is over and the affected House of Assembly members should immediately proceed on self isolation while covid-19 test be conducted for them. Also, everyone that may have had contact with Governor Akeredolu has already tested positive for coronavirus should self isolate and get tested for the virus.
Moreso, members of Governor Akeredolu’s cabinet as well as other patronage seeking persons should allow the Governor to attend to his health in isolation. It is rather disturbing when seen in a video that appointees of Governor Akeredolu still gathered round him when he was supposed to be receiving comprehensive medical management in isolation.
It will not be out of place for Ondo State Government to reconsider its decision on opening on worship centers and markets in the state. What we have on our hands is a very serious health challenge and no sacrifice can ever be too much to contain and combat it.
Ondo State Government also need to step up efforts to ensure compliance with non pharmaceutical measures on prevention on covid -19 infection. More importantly, political rallies should be forbidden in the cause of campaigning for the state governorship election. Digital campaign rallies should be given preference above the conventional physical rallies. This is about the only way to guide against a full blown coronavirus infection in Ondo State.
The deepest sympathy of this magazine sympathizes goes to the
the immediate family of Dr Adegbenro, Ondo State Government and friends as well as his well wishers. In particular, our condolences also go to the so social media crusader widow of the deceased, Mrs Toyin Adegbenro. While the needful is expected from Ondo State Government, we pray for the repose of Dr Wahab Adegbenro in the pantheon of saints.
