By Nkechi Eze
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has urged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and adhere strictly to preventive measures following the Federal Government’s confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Disu also directed police personnel across the country to observe appropriate infection prevention measures while carrying out their duties and promptly refer suspected cases to qualified health professionals.
According to an official statement signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, the IGP stressed the importance of public awareness, personal hygiene and cooperation with health authorities to prevent further transmission of the disease.
He advised Nigerians to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, avoid direct contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected Ebola patients, and stay away from items that may have been contaminated.
The police chief also cautioned members of the public against touching or washing the bodies of persons suspected to have died from Ebola, urging anyone who may have been exposed to the virus to contact health authorities promptly for guidance.
The statement advised individuals who develop symptoms following possible exposure to avoid physical contact with others and call the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) toll-free helpline on 6232 for immediate guidance.
Disu further emphasised that suspected patients, their contacts and healthcare workers must be treated with dignity and without discrimination, warning against stigmatisation during efforts to contain the disease.
He called on Nigerians to cooperate with contact-tracing teams, provide accurate information when required and refrain from circulating unverified reports capable of creating unnecessary panic.
The IGP urged the public to rely on official information from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the NCDC and other authorised public health agencies for updates on the outbreak.
The Nigeria Police Force, he assured, would continue to support relevant health authorities in protecting lives and maintaining public order throughout the period.
He reiterated that protecting public health was a shared responsibility, urging Nigerians to remain informed, vigilant and considerate towards those affected by the outbreak.
