Gbenro Adesina
Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has stated that the ban on public gathering as a result of the coronavirus pandemic is still in place in the state.
The Governor said this today in reaction to what has been described as a misleading press release circulating on the social media saying that the order suspending public worship in the state has been suspended, which was signed by one Adeniran Adenuga.
Makinde said, “A statement is circulating in the Press purportedly from me, stating that we have lifted the restrictions on social distancing regarding places of worship including mosques and churches. This information is FALSE and should be completely disregarded”.
Another statement signed by Jide Ajani, Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, titled, COVID-19: Oyo Govt has not lifted ban on public gathering, advised Churches and Mosques to obey the existing restriction order.
The statement reads in part: “There is a fake press statement presently in circulation, referencing some Executive Orders allegedly issued by the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde.
“The individual who signed the statement is one Adeniran Adenuga, who assumed the title of ‘Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor.
“This fake news is not from Governor Makinde’s Media Office and the so-called Executive Orders are FALSE IN ALL MATERIALS PARTICULAR.
“Being a member of Oyo State Covid-19 Task Force, I can confirm that no such decisions have been taken.
“Therefore, as of today, there is no lifting of the ban on public gatherings – including churches and mosques.
“Please, treat the statement as FAKE NEWS and another handiwork of enemies of the state.
“Prior to this latest evil scheme, the Oyo State Covid-19 Task Force’s daily update flyer had been cloned and used to post incorrect data. On another occasion, they had posted pictures on social media depicting outbreak of violence in Oyo State when the Park Management System was kickstarted.
“Individuals who can go to this extreme, vile and vicious extent, can do anything.
“Members of the public are please advised to ignore the statement”.
