The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant and adhere to preventive measures following the Federal Government’s confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to Force spokesman, Ani Iniedu, on Monday, Disu stressed the importance of personal hygiene and public cooperation with health authorities to prevent further transmission of the disease.
He advised Nigerians to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected cases, and stay away from potentially contaminated items. The public was also warned against touching or washing the bodies of persons suspected to have died from Ebola.
Anyone who may have been exposed to the virus should promptly contact health authorities for guidance. Those who develop symptoms after possible exposure should avoid physical contact with others and call the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) toll-free helpline on 6232.
The IGP also directed police personnel to observe appropriate infection prevention measures while on duty and promptly refer suspected cases to qualified health professionals. He emphasised that suspected patients, contacts and healthcare workers must be treated with dignity and without discrimination.
The Nigeria Police Force urged the public to cooperate with contact-tracing teams, provide accurate information and avoid spreading unverified reports capable of causing panic. Nigerians were advised to rely on official updates from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the NCDC and other authorised public health agencies.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to supporting health authorities in protecting lives and maintaining public order, stressing that public health protection is a shared responsibility.
