COVID-19: Ortom tests negative, isolates as close aides become positive

The Benue State Government has confirmed that Gov. Samuel Ortom tested negative for COVID-19.

A statement by Ortom’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr Terver Akase, on Wednesday said the governor admitted that though he tested negative for COVID-19 on Dec. 14, 2020, some of his close aides, however, tested positive.

He said the development made it necessary for him to go into isolation as the NCDC protocol demands.

The statement also urged the people of the state to go for the test and know their COVID-19 status.

It added that by doing so, they would be complementing the government’s efforts in fighting the pandemic.

He said it was only by going for the COVID-19 test, that a person’s status could be determined and treated on time if positive.

Akase quoting medical experts said, the second phase of the pandemic is deadlier than the first and requires the collaboration of everyone to contain it.