The dreaded Ebola virus disease has led to the death of another member of staff of the Economic Community of West African States, following the death of Patrick Sawyer, a Liberian who brought the disease into Nigeria.
The name of the West African body’s staff was given as Jatto Asihu Abdulqudir as the sub-regional organisation announced his passing today. The late Abdulqudir, a 36-year old, was stationed at the Lagos Liaison Office.
Said to be a Protocol Assistant at the office, he was one of those charged with assisting Sawyer to a regional meeting before his death from the devastating disease in Lagos on July 25.
A statement released on Tuesday said the commission expressed its gratitude to the Nigerian Government authorities and others who contributed to managing the late official who was under quarantine before his death.
“The Management of the Commission wishes to commiserate with Mr. Abdulqudir’s family and colleagues and prays for the repose of his soul.
“Before this sad event, the Commission working in collaboration with Nigerian health authorities, had disinfected all the facilities of the ECOWAS Lagos Liaison Office as part of precautionary measures to safeguard the health, safety and security of staff members, and will continue to monitor the situation.
“Management has also intensified awareness campaign among staff on the deadly virus and uses this opportunity to invoke the spirit of solidarity and mutual assistance.
“The Commission wishes to reassure staff of all Community Institutions all over the entire region that it is taking all necessary steps to guarantee their health and safety.
“Furthermore, Management enjoins all staff members and community citizens in general to intensify the observance of personal hygiene. They should also report any suspected case to health facilities and seek medical advice or attention for the effective containment and defeat of the Ebola disease.”
