Some Osun monarchs on Tuesday applauded Governor Gboyega Oyetola for taking proactive measures to contain the spread of Coronavirus pandemic in the state.
They expressed this in a statement signed by the Chairman of Osun Divisional Conference of Obas, the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Kayode Oyedotun.
While they expressed dissatisfaction over the pandemic, the monarch lauded the government for not relenting in its way of tackling the menace.
“All Obas in Osun central and Osun West areas of the state express strong support for the efforts of His Excellency, Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola, the Executive Governor of the state on the total lockdown meant to curtail the further spread of the Coronavirus in our dear state.
“It is painful that the scourge which is ravaging all countries of the world found its way into Nigeria and of recent to our state. The spread is no doubt a matter of concern to Obas who are the closest to our people.
“We salute the proactive steps taken by our Governor so far since the virus sneaked into Nigeria. We are satisfied with the steps so far taken by our governor as we urge him not to relent in his efforts,” the statement reads in part.
They, however, pleaded with residents to be law-abiding, observe social distancing, wash their hands frequently and avoid crowded areas.
“We like to plead with residents of the state to abide by the guidelines set out by the government to prevent the spread. Notably, we have been instructed to observe social distancing, wash our hands frequently, avoid crowded areas; cough or sneeze inside tissue paper or in our arms and most importantly, stay safe at our respective homes.
“We are aware of the fact that some of the directives may be painful. We advise that we should all endure the discomfort. It is just for a short time. It would soon become a thing of the past.
“It is sad to state that countries whose public health institutions and economy surpass that of Nigeria are sweating profusely under the excruciating burden of the pandemic. The global economy and in particular that of Nigeria, as well as our dear state, are not exempted.
“Our prayer is that this health emergency does not last long. We need to show understanding with the government of the state and to support the good efforts meant to curtail the spread.
“We advise that our sons and daughters who are outside the state should equally observe stay at home wherever they are in the country and elsewhere so that the virus does not spread further.”
