From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has charged traditional rulers in Kogi state to partner the agency in the sensitization and enlightenment of the people against the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.
Ambassador Mohammed Abdullahi , the Director NOA Kogi State Directorate gave the charge in Lokoja during the advocacy visit of the agency on COVID-19 and rape cases to the palace of Maigarin Lokoja Alhaji Muhammadu Maikarfi II.
The Director who said members of NOA were in the palace to seek synergy and collaboration of the traditional institution in sensitising the public on the need to take preventive measures against the spread of coronavirus infection , lamented that some people still not believe in the existence of the pandemic.
According to him “Some people especially those at the rural areas do not believe in the existence of coronavirus which is the most difficult aspect in the fight against the spread of the pandemic.”
Abdullahi who described coronavirus pandemic as a threat to human existence, urged residents of Kogi state to take preventive measure by washing hands regularly with soap and water
Speaking on the incessant rape cases across the country and the recent development where some fathers engaged their daughters on sexual escapade, the NOA boss solicited the prayer and support of the monarch in sensitising the people against the ugly trend.
Responding, the Maigari of Lokoja Dr Muhammadu Maikarfi II commended the agency for their dexterity in ensuring that the COVID-19 disease does not spread in the state through their continuous sensitization campaign.
The royal father assured that the Lokoja traditional council would collaborate with the agency in public enlightment programme to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the state capital.
“We will not also relent in our effort to talk to people on the issue of rape, it is already wipe spread like wild fire and it is not good for humanity” he said.
