COVID-19: National Assembly Members Who Refuse To Be Screened Can Be Arrested – Prof Itse Sagay

COVID-19: National Assembly Members Who Refuse To Be Screened Can Be Arrested – Prof Itse Sagay

Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), Professor Itse Sagay (SAN), on Thursday, said anyone who ignores directives to submit themselves for screening amid the Coronavirus pandemic can be arrested and prosecuted.

It has been reported that some lawmakers refuse coronavirus screening on arrival from a foreign trip prompting the presidency to issue a warning that they must do so without delay.

Speaking in a chat with Daily Independent, Sagay said no one no matter how highly placed is above the laws of the land, adding that ignoring health directives is not only an irresponsible behaviour but capable of endangering peoples lives.

“I heard that some federal lawmakers have refused to submit themselves for screening but I think it has been denied by the spokesman of the House of Reps.

“If it is true, not only will that be irresponsible, it will also be criminal because the President on whose behalf the Ministry of Health and National Centre for Disease Control are acting has powers to give directives on occasions like these which are binding on everybody.

“Anyone who flouts such directives is not only irresponsible in terms of behaviour but is also committing a crime because he is putting all of us at terrible risk. Such a person should be arrested and prosecuted.”

Also speaking on steps taken by the Federal Government so far in tackling the Coronavirus pandemic, Sagay said the Muhammadu Buhari administration has taken proactive steps so far which has won Nigerian commendations in the international community.

“I am impressed with the actions of the federal government so far. In fact, I think we have performed very well and the world has acknowledged it. Even the World Health Organisation has acknowledged it that we have performed very professionally.

“In fact, they are using us as an example even for some developed countries. We are doing quite well and I must commend the President and his team for a great job so far,” he said.