The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has called on local council authorities in Ogoni to step up enlightenment campaigns to sensitize local communities as a way of preventing the spread of the dreaded Corona Virus.
Briefing the media on the decisions of the Central Committee meeting held March 26, 2020, at the MOSOP Secretariat in Bori, traditional headquarters of the Ogoni people, Mr Feghalo Nsuke who is said to be the president of MOSOP, said the people need to be adequately educated on the preventive steps necessary to stay safe as well as the actions needed to be taken when any symptoms are observed.
He urged the Ogoni public not to panic noting that the virus is manageable but urged them to promptly report for medical assistance at appropriate centers when symptoms are observed.
Nsuke also announced the decision of the Central Committee of MOSOP to postpone the General Ogoni Congress earlier scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2020 citing uncertainties surrounding the spread of the Coronavirus. No new date was announced.
He said the Central Committee took the decision in the interest of public health and in support of the decision and actions of the Rivers State Government to fight the disease by discouraging large public gatherings.
Nsuke further noted that although no case of the virus has been reported in Ogoni, it will amount to gross insensitivity to public health and safety of the Ogoni people to proceed with the congress.
He said a new date for the congress will only be decided after the state department of public health has certified that it is safe for normal activities to be held without any negative implications on the health and safety of the people.
The MOSOP President also announced the appointment Comr. Anslem John-Miller as the new Intl Advocacy Officer for MOSOP. John-Miller is currently the Executive Chairman of the Council of Ogoni Professionals (COP, USA) and was recently on the MOSOP delegation to the U.S State Department and the UNPO.
