COVID-19: Nigeria Correctional Service takes measures to protect inmates in Gombe

COVID-19: Nigeria Correctional Service takes measures to protect inmates in Gombe

By Peter Uwumarogie

Measure

Gombe, March 19, 2020 (NAN) Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) Command in Gombe State, has taken measures to protect inmates against Coronavirus (COVID-19) in all custodial centres in the state.

The State NCoS Comptroller, Mr Ahmadu Adamu, said this in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Gombe.

Adamu said that the command had begun to implement a directive from the headquarters on preventive measures across its custodial centres.

He added that the command has also collaborated with the state Ministry of Health on other measures to be taken to prevent spread of the virus.

Adamu said that the command was also working on plans to initiate sensitisation campaign across custodial centres in the state to enlighten inmates and visitors on the disease.

“We are using antiseptic soaps and water for washing at all entry and exit points in all our facilities to prevent and protect inmates and visitors.

“We have clinics being managed by medical personnel of NCoS in all custodial centres.

‘‘We have medical doctors in the largest custodial centre in the command that’s the Gombe custodial centre.

“We also have a Chief Medical Doctor whose functions is to go round other custodial centres if there is any medical issue beyond medical personnel in the place,’’ he said.

Adamu added: “As I speak with you, we don’t have any issue of any outbreak whatsoever. We are on top of the situation and at serious alert.

“In case of any outbreak; we know what and who to meet, for now there is no cause for alarm.’’

About 1,553 inmates are currently in custodial centres across the state with 757 awaiting trial, while 796 are convicted inmates.(NAN)
UP/MOL/ABI
=======
Edited by Mustapha Lamidi/Ali Baba-Inuwa
==================