Members of the Federal Capital Territory Enforcement Team on COVID-19 have denied knowledge of the burial of the president’s late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari.
POLITICS NIGERIA learned that it is the team’s reaction to outrage over the disregard for social distancing and other health advisories at Mr Kyari’s funeral.
This paper had earlier reported how some Nigerians demanded the arrest and prosecution of those who violated the protocols and guidelines of the NCDC at the funeral.
Many Nigerians cited the prosecution of the popular Yoruba actress, Funke Akindele and her husband, who hosted a party at their Lagos residence.
However, in its reaction, Attah Ikharo, the team leader, said members of the team were spread out across the Federal Capital Territory and were not aware of the burial.
He made this known in a report published by an online newspaper, Premium Times.
Mr Ikharo said President Muhammadu Buhari’s order of self-isolation to the aides already sends a strong message.
“For us in the enforcement, we (were)around Airport Road during the burial, Kubwa road, Nyanya, Dutse Alhaji and Mpape. We were not aware when the burial took place.
“But what I think should be more consolatory and more rewarding is the fact that the presidency has come up to say all those who attended that burial should go on self-isolation. And the journalists who were there, the state house media unit has also come out clearly asking them to go on self-isolation.
“I think that has sent a very strong message coming from the highest organ of government in the land. For me, as an enforcer, I commend the president for that and I think that message is enough to tell people the government’s stand on this,” he said.
He also added that over 150 persons have been prosecuted and more prosecutions are ongoing as the team is yet to collate the total number for the day.
He also said some of those convicted are asked to do community services and others are fined between 3000 to 5000, “depending on the gravity of the crime.”
“But most of them were asked to leave their vehicles until (after) the COVID-19 period which we don’t know how long it will last,” he added.
He further appealed to residents to comply with the lockdown order to avoid arrest and prosecution.
When will Nigeria and Nigerians be bold to tell the truth and standby it, How can the Convid 19 FCT task force team deny knowledge of the burial over the media so also Nigerians who faulted Abba Kyari’s administrative policy’s and pattern are now praise singers.