The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has accused several state governments of politicizing the COVID-19 pandemic in order to secure additional funds from the federal government. As of now, confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported in 33 states and the FCT, while Cross Rivers and Kogi state have not recorded any cases of the virus.
In a statement released by the National Chairman, Ango Abdullahi, the NEF emphasized the importance of implementing good policies to protect citizens during this period. The forum expressed regret at the apparent efforts by many state governments to manipulate COVID-19 figures, seemingly in anticipation of increased funding from the federal government and foreign donors.
The NEF stressed the necessity of effective policies that safeguard all Nigerians, as well as the need for proper equipment and facilities for testing and treatment, and resources to support individuals struggling to cope without necessary assistance during the lockdown. Furthermore, the forum discouraged policies that hinder progress in some regions and infringe upon the rights of vulnerable groups. It advocated for states to adopt policies tailored to their unique circumstances, while also emphasizing the importance of implementing basic policies that protect the entire population.
The NEF also commended the deployment of a robust medical team to verify the causes of deaths attributed to the pandemic and to assist the government of Kano State in enhancing its facilities, investigations, and treatment of suspected infections.