Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has stated that 60 per cent of coronavirus cases recorded in the state are oil workers returning from rigs.
Wike disclosed this Wednesday when the management team of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt.
He stated that it was for that reason the state government insisted that oil workers coming into the state must be tested to confirm their coronavirus status, noting that oil remains the mainstay of the economy and that government actions are not targeted at anybody or organisation.
He recalled that recently the Nigeria Airforce Base, Port Harcourt, also quarantined 14 oil workers out which three tested positive.
“It is not in anybody’s interest to deny people to carry out their official duties. Oil is the mainstay of the economy of Nigeria and without it, we that are in this part of the country will find it difficult to function.
“My concern is that companies should always notify the government of workers they are bringing into the state so that our health officials can monitor them.
“So, all that we are saying is that we should work together. But people bring in politics that Rivers State is difficult, they don’t want any oil exploration, that is because people want to play politics.
“People say we don’t want foodstuff and livestock to come into the state. That is not correct. What we are saying is that human beings should not be hidden with these items,” he stated.
The governor lauded Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited for the support to the state government in its fight against COVID-19, pointing out that he would always ensure that the lives of Rivers people were protected.
Earlier, the Executive Director of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mr Udobong Ntia commended the state governor for measures put in place to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the state, particularly the increase in testing.
He noted measures also put in place by the company to fight the virus and donated RNA Covid-19 testing kits and hospital beds to the state government.
Mr Ntia assured the state governor of the company’s commitment to support his effort in providing safety and good health to the people of the state.
