Worried by the number of Almajiris who have tested positive for COVID-19 especially those evacuated from Kano to other states, the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19 has called on governors to halt the deportation exercise.
Recall that the Kaduna State Government on Sunday disclosed that 50 out of the 59 COVID-19 cases in the state were Almajiris who were recently evacuated from Kano.
Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, while speaking on Monday at the PTF daily briefing, said the taskforce would engage state governors to put a stop to the evacuation as it was contributing to the spread of the coronavirus disease.
He also noted that the movement of the Almajiri children was contrary to the ban on interstate travels.
“There has been very noticeable relocation of Almajiris from one state to another, up until yesterday (Sunday). With the ban on interstate movement, the continuation of this exercise will not be in alignment with the guidelines issued. The PTF shall engage with the respective State Governments on how to achieve their objectives,” he said.
READ ALSO: Almajiris From Kano Account For 50 Out Of 59 COVID-19 Cases In Kaduna – El-Rufai
Mustapha also urged Nigerians to stay home, except it was absolutely necessary for them to go out.
He said the partial lifting of the lockdown in parts of the country did not mean that everyone had to be out at the same time.
Mustapha lamented the chaotic and disorderly conduct of Nigerians on the first day of the partial easing of the lockdown.
His words: “Let me remind you, once more, that this easing up is in phases and those who are permitted to open have clearly been defined.
“Our admonition to Nigerians is that it is still desirable to stay at home if there is no compelling reason to go out and to comply with the measures always, whether at home or not.”
