Chukwuma faults FG over compulsory vaccination of civil servants

Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Emmanuel Chukwuma, has condemned the Federal Government for the compulsory COVID-19 vaccination for all civil servants, saying it is a violation of citizens’ fundamental rights.

Chukwuma stated this while speaking with journalists shortly after the commissioning of an ultra-modern diagnostic centre built by the Diocese at the Good Shepherd Specialist Hospital, Enugu, insisting that it is wrong to force people to be vaccinated.

The commissioning of the diagnostic centre was part of the activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the Diocese. He argued that although he was not against the COVID-19 vaccination, it, however, should not be made compulsory, as government’s action constituted an infringement on the rights of citizens.

“You cannot force anybody to take vaccination when you have not ascertained the health condition of that person. I’m not saying it is bad to take vaccination, but it should not be made compulsory without ascertaining the health status of the people.

“There has been vaccination before, which was not forced on anyone. Why is this one particular that people are now being forced to vaccinate? Government should not make it a situation whereby if government workers are not vaccinated, they cannot access their offices or receive their salaries.

“People are hungry, and as such, they should make other important things compulsory and not COVID-19 vaccination,” he said.

He, however, advised the people to continue observing all COVID-19 protocols, while maintaining personal hygiene, especially with the spread of the Omicron variant, adding that the Enugu Diocese had excelled in missions, health and education initiatives and would continue to assist the vulnerable and government to achieve a better society.