By Danjuma Auta
The Plateau State Government has urged citizens in the state to submit themselves for the compulsory COVID-19 testing the state is set to embark on to curb the spread of the pandemic.
This call was made during an international press briefing organized by the leadership of the state House of Assembly at the NUJ Press Centre, Jos.
The speaker, Rt. Hon. Nuhu Abok, who spoke on behalf of his members, disclosed that the legislature was worried about the continued spread of the pandemic in the state
He disclosed that because reports from relevant authorities showed that citizens were not worried about the spread of the pandemic, the House resolved to step down the testing to rural areas through the mobile testing lab initiative as was being done in other states of the federation.
The speaker disclosed that efforts were ongoing to synergize with the ministry of youth and women affairs ministries to ensure that they are carried along in the 2021 budget through providing them with meaningful activities to better their lives.
The Chairman, House Committee on Health, Nanbol Listic, enjoined citizens to go for testing so that they may know their status, particularly now that the state was preparing to host the national arts festival, NAFEST, during which the state would be hosting people from across the country.
He said, “Already the vaccine had passed 90% trial, and the more we conduct test the better the data will help us get our share of the vaccine in the nearest future to help us find a lasting solution to the pandemic.’’
Also contributing, member representing Pankshin North and House Committee Chairman on Information, Hon. Philip Dasun, disclosed that members fully supported the #ENDSARS protesters for making legitimate demands towards a better Nigeria Police and good governance.
He however condemned the action of the criminal elements who hijacked the peaceful protests and engaged in looting and destroying private and government property worth billions of naira.
He advised the youth to take advantage of the people-oriented programs of the present administration and engage in ventures that would better their lives now and in future.