News just in: Nigeria has reported its first fatality from Coronavirus.
The deceased, a 67-year-old man, had recently returned from the UK where he had been receiving medical treatment, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
The victim has been identified as Suleiman Achimugu, who previously served as the managing director of the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, a subsidiary of Nigerian National Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC). He reportedly passed away at 2am on Monday.
Achimugu, a native of Kogi state, had returned from the UK two weeks prior.
According to reports, Achimugu displayed symptoms of the virus on Tuesday, and the case was reported to the NCDC. His blood specimen tested positive, following which he was transferred to the specialist hospital, Gwagwalada in Abuja, where he unfortunately succumbed to the virus.
The deceased’s family members are said to be under quarantine at their home.
In a statement released by Abubakar Achimugu on behalf of the family, it was confirmed that Suleiman Achimugu had been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic customs.
”Our family is deeply saddened to inform you of the sudden death of our beloved Father, Uncle, Brother and friend. Engr. Suleiman Achimugu (former Md of PPMC),” the statement read.
”He died of COVID 19 on 22/03/2020 some days after he arrived Nigeria from the UK. He was in self isolation upon his return from the UK and personally called NCDC after experiencing some discomfort that are related to COVID 19 symptoms.
”He tested positive and was promptly evacuated to the specialist hospital. He died while receiving treatment.
”We implore the general public to pray upon his soul and the recovery of infected persons. Your thoughts and prayers would be appreciated.
”Please maintain the public social distancing and restriction advice as we all walk through this very difficult time. He has since been buried according to Islamic rites. May Allah SWA have mercy on him.”