Olakunrin’s suspected killer tests negative for COVID-19, says Akeredolu

• Discloses move to return suspect to correctional centre
• Confirms community transmission
• Urges residents to shun tradomedical cure for virus

One of the suspected killers of Mrs. Funke Olakunrin, daughter of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, who had earlier tested positive for COVID-19 has been certified negative after two successive tests in line with treatment and testing protocols.

Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who disclosed this yesterday at the weekly COVID-19 press briefing at the Government House, Akure, expressed optimism that the trial of the suspects would continue unhindered even as he described the two escape attempts of the suspect as worrisome.

According to him, necessary contacts had been made with the Interior Minister, Rauf Aregbesola, to hasten the return of the defendant to the correctional centre since charges have been read in respect of the case.

“It is no longer expedient to keep the suspect outside an approved correctional centre. Where he is now is not the proper place. We are already discussing with the Minister of Interior on the need to move the suspect, we call them defendants anyway, to the correctional centre.

“That is where he rightly belongs. We believe strongly that the minister will in no distance time, direct appropriate quarters within his jurisdiction to effect the transfer of the man to the appropriate place.”

The governor admonished the residents of the state to desist from various suggestions and unauthorised recommendations of drugs and therapies, warning that they have not been clinically proven by the appropriate authorities.

He, however, affirmed that the state was on top of the situation as the 20th case, which was recorded at the weekend, is responding to treatment, while 13 patients had been successfully treated and discharged, one dead and six still undergoing treatment.

“What is clear in this data is that COVID-19 can be treated if detected and reported early. It is also clear that our health workers are competent and more than ready to save lives,” he said.

Akeredolu, who raised concerns at inter-state importation and community transmission of the pandemic, said: “The specifics of the 20th case bears testimony to the seriousness of the matter.

Speaking on the tradomedical treatment, he said: “Government wishes to use this opportunity to advise the public against embarking on such harmful and indiscriminate acts.

“All the herbal combinations and orthodox medicine mostly being promoted and displayed on the social media and elsewhere are not yet authenticated and approved for clinical use.”